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LIBRARY

OF THE

MASSACHUSETTS

AGRICULTURAL

COLLEGE

so u R c eWI?1§-. .Vf _^ VA . -k [rs CO \:x\

V, 14

^ 67 if

K^cyi^U

THE M A G A Z I N E

HORTICULTURE,

AND A [, I. U S K F U L D I S C O V E R I K 3 AM) [ .M P i; (J V 10 M K N T S 1 N

RURAL AFFAIRS.

" Je vonilrnif ccliaiifFcr tout I'linivers de mon gout pour les jnniiiw. 11 me spiiible
qtril e-t impossible (pi'iin inechant pnisse I'avoir. 11 ii'est point de verliis que je ne
siinpo=e ;\ cfilni fpie aiin« Ji parler et i faire des jardiiis. I'crcs de fHinille, inspirez
la j.irdinoinaiiie a vosenraiis." — Prince De. Ligne.

VOL. XIV.,
1848.

(vol. IV., NEW SKRIEf.)

Edited by C. M. HOVEY

BOSTON:
PUBLISHED BY HOVEY AiND CO., iMERCHANTS ROW

1848.

Mil

v.\4

PHEFACE.

The Fourteenth Volume of the Magazine having been
brought to a close, we have only to refer our readers to the
following Table of Contents, to show the variety of informa-
tion contained in this Volume.

Boston, December 25, 1848.

C 0 A^ T E N T S .

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

GENERAL SUBJECT.

A Retrospeclive View of tlie Progress of
Horticdlture in ihe United States, dur-
ing the year 1847. By the Editor, . 1

Rules of "American" Pomology adopted
by the Massachusetts florticultural So-
ciety ; with remarks upon the same.
By the Editor, 97

Notes on Gardens and Nurseries in the
vicinity of New York, Philadel|)hia,
Baltimore, and Washington. By the
Editor, 241. 239

Ancient Horticulture. By S., . . . 433

Some Retnarks on tlie increase of Cryp-
togamous Plants, and a Notice of a
Disease which attacks the Melon Vine.
By N. Goodsell, Esq., Greece, Monroe
County, N. Y 437

Notes of a Visit to several Gardens and
Nurseries in Western New York. By
the Editor, .... 481. 529

HORTICULTURE.

Norton's Melon Apple. By Messrs. Ell-
wanger& Barry, Nurserymen, Roches-
ter, N. Y., 12

Descriptions and Engravings of Select
Varieties of Apples. By the Editor, —

1. Red Astrachan, Benoni, Garden
Royal, 15

2. Early Harvest, Porter, Williams, 115

3. Walpole, Peck's Pleasant, Beauty

of Kent, 218

4. Bough, Early Strawberry, Sum-
mer Qneen, 486

5. BluePearmain,nnbhardston Non-
such, Loring Sweeting, , . . . 544

Note upon Denniston's Superb and Al-
bany Beauty Plums, liy the Editor, . 19

On the Formation of Vine Borders. By
the Editor, 49

Pomological Rules adopted by the New
York State Agricultural Society, at
their last Annual Meeting, with a List
of Fruits which the Executive Com-
mittee recommend as worthy of Gen-
eral t'nltivation. By a Correspondent, 67

Grafting Grape Vines. By Alexander
Marshall, Esq., West Chester, Pa., . 107

Pomological Notices ; or Notices respect-
ing New and Superior Fruits, worthy
of General Cultivation. Bv the Edi-
tor, . . . . '. . 1(18. 208

On the Culture of the Pear on the Apple.
By Dr. James Weed, Bloomington, la., 145

Descriptions and Engravings of Select
Varieties of I'lums. By the Editor, —
1. Washington, Saint Martin Rouge,
Cooper's, Thomas, .... 149

On the Cultivation of the Mushroom. By
J. Kennedy, Gardener to S. T. Jones,
Esq., Staten Island, N. Y., . . . 155

Comparative Eaillness of eight varieties
of Beans, with stune Remarks on their
Qualities, Cultivation, &c. By the
Editor, 158

On the Cultivation and Management of
Grape Vines in Pots. By Mr. W.
Wright, Gardener to the Hon. Mrs.
Rusliout, near London. With Re-
marks upon the same. By the Editor, 193

Descriptions and Engravings of Select
Varieties of Pears. By the Editor, —

CONTENTS

1. Payency, Bon Chrilion Foiidiiiite,
Eyewooil, Ueurre Uuval, Doyeiuie
Saiuelete, Fjijiie,

2. lie/A de Moiili^ny, Gaiisel's UergH-
mot, Bcmr^ d'Aiijuu, Diicliesse d"Or-
leaiis, Beuire Crapaud, Roiisselet de
Mccster,

3. Oliver's Russet, lileekcr's Mead-
ow, Suriiusse Virgoiilouse, Capslieaf,
Sliiii'tleft''s Seedling, Williams's Early,

The Culture of tlie Fi^r. By the Edi-
tor,

Memoranda respecting the Cannon Hall
MiiS(;Ht Gra])e. By Alexander Wilson.
With Remarks ujion the same. By the
Editor,

Bayne's Extra Early, Hoston Pine, and
Hovey's Seedliiifr --irawlierries. By Ur.
J. H. Bayne, .\le\andria, Va.,

Description and Engraving of the May
Apple. By T. S. llumrickhoiise, Co-
shocton, Ohio,

Summer Pinning Dwarf Fruit Trees, as
practised in France. By R. Thompson,
Superiiilendant of the Fruit Depart-
ment in the Garden of the I-oiid<in
Ilorticultural Society. With Remarks.
By the Editor,

Descriptions and Engravings of Select

Varieties of Cherries. By the Editor, —

1. Florence, Black Eagle, Downer, .

Descriptions of two varieties of Ajiples,
with Engravings of the Fruit. By T.
S. IlumrickliousB, Coshocton, Ohio, .

Notice of a new Native Pear, called Pen-
dleton's Early York, with a Descrip-
tion ot the Fruit. By C. H. Pendle-
ton, Pendleton llill. Conn., .

Bloodgood and Belle de Bruxelles Pears.
By R VV. S.,

Three new varieties of .\pples, with Des-
criptions and Engravings of the Fruit.
By the Editor,

Sonie Account of an Experiment in the
Removal of large Apple U'rees, in the
Auiumn of 1846. By P., .

The Pomological Convention at Buffalo.
By the Editor,

Beasons for, and against. Root Grafting.
By N. Goodsell, Esq., ....

FLORICULTURE.

Notes on some of our Native Plants.
ByJ.L.R., ]9

On the Cultivation of the Dahlia in Pri-
vate Gardens. By James Kennedy,

i Gardener to S. T. Jones, Esq., The Ce-
I dais, Stalen Island, . . . .27
The Means Grass, and its Cultivation. By
I John Lewis Russell, Prof. Bot tc, to

j Mass. llort. Soc, 31

I The Japan Lilies; their Hfctory, Cnltiva-
I tioii, Proiiagation, <kc. By the Editor, 34
I Remarks on Cyclamen Eurojias'um. By
John Lewis Russell, . . . .71
On the Cultivation of Epiphyllum Rus-
sell((i/ti(m, and other Cacti; with a
I short notice of a New Variety of Cab-
bage. By J. E Teschemacher, . . 119
I On the Peculiarities of Foliage in the Ca-
j niellia ; with some Remarks on the De-
ficiency of Coloring Matter in the Petals
I of many of the New Varieties. By
j Dr. J. S. Gunnell, Washington, D. C, 161
On the Cultivation of 'Voiinia Asiatica.

By E. W 1C3

Eiiiphyllum Russell('«n«TO. By P., . 164

^neinine Japonica ; its Cultivation, Prop-
agation, &.C.; with an Engraving of the
Flower. By the Editor, . . . 165
Descriptions of Eight New Verbenas. By

the Editor, 220

On the Cultivation of the Balsam, . . 316
The Camellia; its History, Introduction,
Propagation, Cultivation, and General
Treatment, with a Descriptive List of
the finest varieties. By the Editor, 301. 351
The Cultivation and Treatment of the
Double Varieties of the Chinese Prim-
rose. By John Cadness, Brighton,

Mass., 395

CalysKJgia pub<^-scens, a New Climbing
Plant ; its Cultivation, Propagation, &c.
By Jolin Cadness, Brighton, .
The Treatment of the Fuchsia, for the
Summer Green-house and Conservato-
ry. By George C. Thorburn, Astoria,

New York,

On the Culture of the Leschenniiltia for-
mosa. By Wm. Saunders, Gardener to
Wm. Bostwick, Esq., New Haven,

Conn., 447

On the Culture of the Calceolaria. By
James Kennedy, Gardener to S. T.
j Jones, Esq., Staten Island, . . . 492
On the Cultivation of Achimenes. By
Will. Saunders, (Jardener to Win. Bost-
wick, Esq., New Haven, Conn., . . 494
Floricultural and Botanical Notices of
New and Beautiful Plants figured in For-
eign Periodicals ; wiili Descriptions of
those recently introduced to, or origin-
ated in, American Gardens, 73. 170. 221.
25.5.309. 357. 401. 497
Notes on Gardens and Nuiseries, . .359

398

445

REVIEWS.

The Rose, its History, Poetry, Cnltiire,
nnd Classification. By S. B. Parsons,

Transactions of the Ohio Nurserymen
and Fruit Growers' Convenlion ; held
at Columbus, Sept. 29 and 30, 1847, .

Address of Gen. James Tallmadge,
delivered at Castle Garden, in the city

of New York, at the close of the
Twentieth .\nnual Fair of the Ameri-
can Institute, Oct. 23, 1847, . . 174
Address delivered at the .\nnual Meet-
ing of the New York Slate Agri-
cultural Society, at Albany, January
19, 1843. By John P. Norton, Profe*-

CONTENTS.

8or of Agricultural Chemistry, Yale
College, New Haven, Conn., . . 174

Strawberry Report, read bel'ure the Cin-
cinnati HorlicuItLiral Society, August,
1847, and ordered to be published, . 225

Transactions ol' the Essex Agricultural
Society, for the year 1847, . . - 259

A Manual of the Botany of the Northern
United States, from New England to
Wisconsin, and south, to Ohio and
Pennsylvania, inclusive, <fec., &c. By
Asa Gray, M. D., Fisher Professor of
Natural History in Harvard University, 313

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

General Notices.
Strawberry Runners, 80 -, Larse Fruited
Monthly Rnsjibcrry, 81; Cultivation of
Pears, 81; The art of Hjbridizing Flowers,
122; Japan ],ilies, 177; Roses for Winter
Decoraiion, 178 ; Bleeding of Vines, 179 ;
Green-house Azaleas tor Winter Decora-
tion, 179; Pruning Heaths, J81; Asparagus,
182; Pears on Quince Stocks, le3 ; On the
Culture of Tall or Climbing Roses, 231 ;
Cultivation of Grape Vines, 265; Wasli for
Peach Trees,26C; Double Flowering Stocks,
266; Hardy t'pecies of the Pinus tribe in
Scotland, 267; Culture of Primula sinensis,
27U ; Cannon Hall Muscat Grapes, 271;
Plants for Bedding out on Lawns, 271 ;
Treatment of Plants in Pots, 273; Sarawak,
Java, — its soil, climate, Ac, 274; Mush-
rooms, 276; Uachenalias for Spring Bloom-
ing, 276 ; Results of the euccessful cultiva-
tion of the Grape, 277; Cultivation of Chi-
nese Azaleas, 278 ; Culture and Manage-
ment of Green-house si)ecimens, 279; Sum-
mer Management of Pyratnidal Pear Trees,
361; 'J'op-dressiniis or iMulchings, 404; Pro-
pagation of Pinks, (Jarnatious, and Pico-
tees, 406; Propagation of the Hollyhock,
407, Dislnulding Fruit Trees, 407; Bone
Dust a good Manure for Shrubs, 410; Best
Method to have a ;>uccession of fine fresh
<;auliIlowers through the Winter Months,
410; Culture of the Camellia, 412; Culti-
vation of Melons, 413; The Hollyhock and
its Culture, 414; Forcing the Rose, 41G;
Culture of the Orange, 418; Cultivation of
the Cabbage, 419; Cultivation of the Pe-
largonium, 420; Vines. 421 ; Fruit Trees in
Pots, 421; Strawberries, 448; Reserve beds
for Window Plants, 449; Cryptomeria ja-
ponica, 499; Propagation of Plants, 502;
High Night Temperature in Plant Houses,
503; Pyramidal Trees on Quince Slocks,
505.

Foreign Notices.

England. — Dahlias and Dahlia Exhibitions
of 1848, 548.

Turkey. — Gardening on the Bosphorus, 42;
American Fruits on the Shores of the Bos-
phorus, 422.

Domestic Notices.
The Noveinlier of 1847, 44; Gnaphdlium can-
delabrum, 82 ; Seedling Dahlias, Pelargo-
niums and Roses, 82; Seedling Fuchsias
and Devoniensis Rose, 83 ; Best Stocks for
Roses, 83; Mr. Beck's sjiecial Prizes for Pe-

largoniums, 124-, The Red Canada Apple,
124 ; Albany and Rensellaer Horticultural
Society, 125; New York State Agricultural
Society, 184; Burlington (Vt.) Horticultu-
ral Society, 185 ; Montreal llorticultural
Society, 188; Severity of the Winter, 168;
Pomological Rules, 168; The Season in
Mississippi, 188 ; Liberal Premium (or the
Cultivation of the Oak, 189; Purchase of Mt.
Vernon by Government, ]89; Bayne's Ex-
tra Early Strawberry, 281 ; Aberdeen Bee-
hive Strawberry, 282; Strawberry Chal-
lenge, 282 ; Severity of the Winter at Al-
bany, 283; New York State Agricultural
Society, 319; Albany and Rensellaer Horti-
cultural Society, 322; Pomological Conven-
tion, 326; Exhibitions of Horticultural So-
cieties, 363; The Cherry Currant, 363; The
Victoria Currant, 364; Great Crop of Siraw-
berries, 364; Great Collections of Straw-
berries, 364 ; Albany and Rensellaer Horti-
cultural Society, 364 ; Horticultural Exhi-
bition of the American Institute, 368; Nur-
series of Messrs. Hovey & Co., 372 ; Great
National Convention of Fruit Growers, 423;
New Seedling Strawberries,424; Ott's Seed-
ling Pear, 424; Mexican Squash, 424; Blight
in I'ear Trees, 425; The Fruit Crop in Ohio,
425 ; Annual Exhibition of the Worcester
Horticultural Society, 451 ; Notes on New
Dahlias, 451; Annual Exhibition of the New
York State Agricultural Society, 453; Lib-
eral Premiums lor Seedling Grapes, 507;
Annual Exhibition of the New Bedford
Horticultural Society, 507; Horticultural
Humbugs, 507; Gen. Hand Plum,. 508; Abu.-
tilon ven6sum, 508; Great National Con-
vention of Fruit Growers at New York,
508; Pomological Convention at Buffalo,
549 ; Pears on North Walls, 550 ; Summer
Pruning Pear Trees, 550; Cleveland Horti-
cultural Society, 551 ; American Almonds,
551.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society-
Exhibitions, 45; Award of Premiums for
Flowers, Fruits and Vegetables for 1847,
85; Report of the Finance Commitlee, 128;
Schedule ot Premiums offered for 1848, 13J-,
Exhibitions, 141; Exhibitions, 190; Exhi-
bitions, 238; Exhibitions, 2bo ; Premiums
awarded for Pelargoniums and other Plants,
285,286; Exhibitions. 327; Premiums award-
ed for Roses, &c., 330 ; Exhibitions, 373;
Award of Premiums for Strawberries and
Grapes, 376; Exhibitions, 425; Award of
Premiums for Phloxes, 423; Exhibitions,

CONTENTS.

454 ; Award of Premiums on Pears, &,c.,
455. 458\ Twentieth Annual Exhibition anil
Triennial Festival at Faneuil Hall, 458. 460;
Report of the Plants, Flowers, Fruits and
Vegetables e.\hibited at the Annual Exhi-
bition, 510; Award of Premiums at the
Annual Exhibition, 522; Annual Election
of Orticers for 1849, TjaS ; Exhibition of
Dahlias and Award of Premiums, 526 ; Ex-
hibitions, 566 ; Report of the Committee on
Medals, 568; Award of Premiums on Fruits,
569.

Exhibitions of Horticultural Soc'ties.

Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, 126: Al-
bany and Reusellaer Horticultural Society,
551; New Bedford Horticultural Society,
556 ; Worcester County Horticultural So-
ciety, 560; Cleavelaud Horticultural Soci-
ety, Ohio, 564; Pennsylvania Horticultural
Society, 565.

Retrospective Ciiiticis.m.
The Herbaceous Plants of Massachusetts,
236 ; Aberdeen Beehive Strawberry, aSS.
380.

Answers to Correspondents.
Destruction of the Red Spider and Mealy
Bug, 46; Epipliyllum Russell/njnfm, 94;
Al/utilon striatum, 94; Best Dahlias, 94;
Best Azaleas, 95; Pelargoniums, 95; White
Lagerstrcemia, 142; GtJsnera zebrina, 142;
Gladiolus pudibiiudus, 142; Veriiiiica speci-
Asa, 142; Verbenas, 142; Pelargoniums for
Exhibition, 334; Laying Carnations, 334;
J'rize Dahlias, 334; Herbaceous Perennials,
334; Special Manures for Trees, 382; Grapes,
382; Strawberries, 383; Green-house An-
nuals for Winter, 383.

Obituary.
Death of William Oakes, Esq., 430.

HORTICl'LTURAL MEMORANDA.

Januarv, 47; February, 95; March, 143; April,
191;'May, 239; June, 287; July, 335; Au-
gust, 38-3; September, 431; October, 479;
November, 527; December, 571.

LIST OF ENGRAVINGS.

rig. FLOWERS.

18. Jnemdne jnp6nica,
42. Calyst^giu pub^scens,

FRUIT.

Apples.

1. Red Astrachan, .

2. Henoni,

3. Garden Royal, .

11. Early Harvest, .

12. Porter,

13. Williams, .

25. Walpole, .

26. Peck's Pleasant, .

27. Heauty of Kent, .

28. May, ....

39. Summer,

40. June, ....

43. Manomet, .

44. Garretson's Early,

45. Foundling, .
40. Bough,

47. Early Strawberry,

48. Summer (lueen, .

49. Blue Pearmain, .

50. Hnliburdslon Nonsuch,

51. Loring Sweeting,

CkeTTies.

36. Florence, .

37. Black Eagle,
88. Downer,

Page
. 166
. 400

16
17

18
115
117
118
248
250
251
294
389
390
441
442
444
487
489
490
544
.546
547

386

387

Pears
Payency,

Bon Chretien Fondants
Eyewood, .
Beurr^ Duval,
Doyenne Santelete,
Figue, .

Bezi de Montigny,
Gausell's Bergamot,
Beurrt d' Anjou,
Duchesse d'Orleans,
Beurre Crapaud,
Rousselet de Meester
Oliver's Russet, .
Bleeker's Meadow,
Surpasse Virgoulouse
Capsheaf, .
Shurtleft''s Seedliu
Williams's Earlv,
Pendleton's Early Yoi

PLANTS.

Page

. 58
. 59
. 61
. 62
. 64
. 66
. 199
. 201
. 202
. 204
. 205
. 207
. 338
. 3:i9
. 341
. 342
. 344
. 345
. 392

4. The Japan Lily, (/.. specidsum var.

n'lbrum,) 36

19. Black Hamburg Grape Vine in Pot, . 194

OPERATIONS.

29. Camellia Cutting, prepared for in-

sertion, 304

30. Camellia, showing the mode of in-

arching, 305

31. Belgic Mode of Grafting the Camellia, 306

CONTENTS.

Vll

LIST OF PLANTS

ENUMERATED IN THE PRESENT VOLUME

In the body of the Magazine, a few errors occur in the spelling of the botanical names,
the capitalizing of generic and specific names, their derivation and accentuation ; these are
all corrected in the following list of plants.

Lists of Azaleas .... 95. 278 j List of Herbaceous Pseonies, . . . 329

Lists of Camellias, .... 126. 141 List of Hardy Pinuses, . . . 268

Lists of Carnations and Pieotees, . 367. 377 Lists of Prairie Roses, . . . 330. 375

Lists of Dahlias, 94. 334. 367. 451. 526. 548 Lists of Fine Roses, . . 323. 330. 552

Lists of Pelargoniums, 95. 220. 284. 323. Lists of Fine Verbenas, . . . 142. 552

328. 334 List of Green-house Annuals, . . 383

Abulia rup^stris 456. 497

yl'bies BrunoniaKa 269

canadensis 269

DouglAs(J 269. 500

morinda 269

Abutilon Bedfordjanitm 510
striatum 8. 94

vendsum 8. 94. 508

Abrdnia umbellita 310

.dicdcia floribiinda 291

linearis 242. 510

n4tida 290

pulchella 291

spect4bilis 141. 290

Achlmenes argyrostlgma 495
cocclnea 495

cupredta 495

gloxinsfldra 312

grandill6ra 495

hirsiita 495

ledif61ia 495

Lehmantt 8

longifldra 495

ocelldta 403

pdteus 8. 495

picta 312.377.495

pyropffi'a 495

pedunculdta 495

r6sea 495

Skinneri 495

25 kinds 311

vEgiphila grandiflora 359

jEschynduthuslongifl6rus 171
.^gave americdna 373

A'Wmxn Cieruleum 224

Alpinia nutans 510

Anemone jajionica 8. 165. 510
Anigozinlhos coccineus 286
Antidris toxic4ria 274

-4p4rgia autumn^lis 45

Aquilegia canadensis 172

leptoc^ras 172

vulsiris 172

Araucaria exc^lsa 284. 510
imbricita 9. 269. 500

.^ristoU'ichia grandifldra 499
Azdiea iiidica var. dlba 180
decdra 284

Duke of Devon-
shire 279
exquisite 180. 27S.
284
Gledstan^3/j 285. 290 I

Az4Iea indica grdndis 278

Leucom^gestre 190
Mackenzien;ta 291
plioenlcea 150. 278
Remingt6n/a 291
Smith's coccinea 180
Smith's lulgens 190
speciosus 190

speciosissiraus 190
triiimphans 190

tricolor 284

variegata 180. 278.
284
Williamsu 290

new seedling white

190

seedlings 290

sin<5nsis 279

Barbac^nia purpurea 499

Barnad^sm r6sea 566

Begonia fuchsoides 498

manirdta 366

sanguinea 366

Berberis aurahacu6nsis 402

Bigndnj'a Carolina -402

picta 402

Rletia Tankervilkp 190

Bordnia anemonefldra 141

pinnAta 141

serruldta 280

Brachysttlma tuberdsiim 403

Brunsvigia Josephinca 358

Knightn 290

Buddleya Lindleydwa 330

Oalliopsis Drumm6nd/j 366

Calceolaria 256. 492

Calystegia pub<5scens 8. 285.

398. 510

Camelha 302. 351. 412

japonica var. Abby

Wilder 402

alexin a 290

americoina 290

anemonelldra 302
brooklynia 292

Buist's Eliza 292

caudidissima 291.
302
Colvlllii 293

Countess ol Ork-
ney 499
Donckela^ri 291
double white 302

Cara^lh'a japonica Duch-
ess of Orleans 292
fimbriata 302

Gen. Washington

243. 292
Gen. Lafayette 402
Henry V. 292

Halley's Monarch 289
Lady Hume's Blush

302
Landrethu 292

Ldwu 141. 291

Middlemist 402

miniita 76

monterdni 292

Mrs. Gunnell 243
7«yrtif61ia 76

new seedling 256
Palmer's Perfec-
tion 292
Prince Albert 292
Q,ueen Victoria 290
R6ss« 302
seedlings 293
teut6nia 141
tricolor 302
Wilderz 401
Camiinsia escul^nta 75
Campanula nobilis 8. 171. 284
Wahlenb^rgii 374
Caprifdlium sempervlrens 45
Cddrus Deodura 269
LibElni 269
Ceanothus, 3 sp. 310
CentSur^a americdna 359
Centrad^nia rosea 290
C6reus Ackermdnjj 120
Mayndrdit 566
SmithidriMs 552
speciosissimus 120
Cerop^gia Cumingrfno 258
Cistrum auranliacum 8. 425
Chen^stes lanceoldta 256
Chimciphila macul4ta 24
umbellata 24
Chirlta sinc^nsis 566
Walkirce 76
Chlediiithes frdgrans 359
Chorizema cordila 242
virium 141.242
Clematis aziirea gr&ndifltira

284
electa 324

via

CONTENTS.

Clematis iinegi-if61ia 324

tubulAsa 51)6

C'.fithra arl)6rea 366

C!iv/rt imbiiis 88

tolchicuiii autumiidle 44

Convolvulus tricolor vit-

Uius 224

Combritiim purpireum 552

Cr6wea saligna 510

Cryptom^ria jap6nica 269.

284. 499. 510

Cyclamen ediim 72

europas'um 71

liederasld'ium 26. 72

pirsicuin 72

v6rniim 72

Cyprip^iiium insigne 190

Cytisus ^acem^su^s 88

Dinimarrt austidlis 275

DraccE'na fiigians 510

Dryobalanops camphora 274

Diirio zibelhinus 276

EcliinocActus Eyridszi" 88. 119

OUonis 88

Echiiu'ichloa Crus-gilli 32

Edgworthm chrysiiitha 172

Epigfe'a ri^pens 44

Ei)iphylluiu RussellwnMOT 94.

119. 164

truncAtum 120

seeillin;; 327

JErlca aiistita 161

bldiida 552

Bowie'ina 126. 2s3

brevitl6ra 234

ceriiithoides 181

cruenta 552

odorAta 284

sup^rba 284

tranap^rens 126

trossula 181

ventricdsa ilba 284

fiAgrans 285

Wilmoredna 181

Erysimum vuls^re 45

Erythriiia Crista gdlli 425

Eschyndnthus grandifldrus

126
JEuph6rb7'a splindens 366

Eiicharidium granditldrum

366

Fidelia graclfera 366

Forsythia viridissima 566

Fuchsia 445

var. Acdntha 8. 445

lirookiiiani't 366

corillina 8. 445

Conqueror 445

Clara 445

delicjkta 445

Empress 8

exquisite 375. 445

Lady Milbank S. 445

Lady of the Lake 8

Nymph 8

Napoleon 375. 445

Sir H. Pottinger 8

surpasse racemdsa

445

vesta 8

Yonilht 445

Zenobia 445

fiilpens 312

lox^nsis 312

inacrantha 8

gerratifdlia 8. 312

»pect4biliB 311

Gail'ardfVi picta cocc'inea 377

Wells((i/ia 377

Gard6n;a Sherbouruei 566

Oarciinia mangustan 276

Girryaeliptica 310

Gesnera oblonga 291

tubiflora 88

zebrina 142

Gladiolus bldndus 142

cardinalis 142

ColvilUV 142

Due d'Orleans 377

gandaveiisis 377

Liebiiitzii 377

natalensis 142

Gloxin/a Carldai 375

celestial 375

FyliuTja 258

inslgnis 375

macrophylla variegata

375

5 var. 366

Gnaphalium candel4brum 82

Hasinaiitluis tenuifoiius 88

//edychinm 114vum 510

//eliotripium voltarlnum 375

/fibiscus spl^ndens 510

H6y« cari;dsa 20

cinnamomirdlia 258

imperious 275

Hydrdngea japonica 88.377

Ix6ra coccinea 284

Grid'itlu'j 74

rAsca 379. 510

Justlcm persicoeiaiia 244

LachenAlia 276

iaiirus regilis 310

Le6ntodou taraxicum 45

Leschenaultia arcudta 448

biloba ndna 448

granditI6ra 448

formdsa 284. 447

spl^ndens 448

Leucaiuhemum vulgdre 45

Lilium Brdwuij 35

Broussartu' 35

canad^nse 34

cAndidum 34

clialcedonicum 34. 41

exiniium 34. 171

japonicuin 34, 41. 171

lancifdlium 35

longilWnim 171

Marlnson 34

philadtlphicuni 34

specidsum Album 37.171

puncldtum . 37

rdseum marnio-

rAtum 38

n'lbrum 35. 171

seedlings 375. 379

sup^rbum 34. 51

test Ace um 35. 284

Thunbergmnum 35

tigrinuin 34

versicolor 35

Lysiondtus AucklAndu 275

Lythruiii alAta 366

salicAria 366

MacleAna cordAta 258

Magtidlm grandifldra 510

macrophylla 324

Manettj'a blcolor 357

niiniAta 357

JVfAlva rotundifdlia 45

MesembryAnthemum sp. 310

Metroddrea atropurpilrea 403

Nemophila discoidA'is 366

iVep^nthes distillal6ria 242

Hookeridna 273

iVirium RagorAtj 36(j

O'rchis fimbriAta 425

Oxyp^talum solanoides 398

f Avia caliloniica 310

Pxdaia Moatnn nAnksicE 311

globosa 310

Grand Uuc do Bade

286
lilacina 311

nionstrdsa a!ba

pleiiissima 286

phceiiicea pldna 327

jicta 310

Rococco 286

r<)sa supeiba 327

rdsea 310

salmdnea 311

violAcea 310

albifldra lestiva 329

VdXlsii 324

sullduirea 329

Reine Hortense 329

tenuifd^ia fi. pi. 257

PentarliApliia cubensis 223

Pelargonium var. Blanche 284

('assandra 285

Centurion 284

Desdeniona 284

Drury's Pearl 284

Forget-me-not 285

grandifiora 284

Hebe's Lip 285

Marc Anthony 284

Rosamund 284

new seedlings 82

Phalangium esculentum 75

Phl6x Drummdnd/i 272

var. Leopdldj'i 311

occllAta 311

Anguste 366

Annais Cbanviere 366

Blanc de Neuilly 428

Charles 428

Cromwell 8

eclipse 8

FkMir de Marie 8. 366

Goclhe 8. 425

giAto 324

nymphae'a a'.ba 428

picta 366

Princess Marianne 425

setAcea nivAlis 45

speculum 8. 425

suaviolens 321

Standard of Perfection 8.

425

Van Houtteu' 324

Pime!6a spectAbile 284

Pinus Benlliami 310

califdrnica 310

strdbus 21

7'lumbAgo Larp^ntfC 256

Pda Annua 45

Primula sinensis 270

var.fl.pl. 142.395

Prilnus sp. 310

Psidium Cattleyriri?/77i 510

fihododendron BrookidnMwi

275

javAnicnm 222

Ronde'dt/a specidsa 379. 500

Roses, seedlings, <kc. 83

Russelbo ;uncea 510

SabbAtta chloroides 425

CONTENTS.

Sabbitj'a Alba

425

Strobi'4nthe3 lactdtus

498

5&lvia spl^ndens

497

Styphfilia tubifldra

280

mijor

497

Ticomajasminoides rdsea 222

oppositiW.ia

498

Tetranema mexicina

357

Scutellaria Ventendte

223

Tlieobroma cacio

275

Schub<^rtw grav^olens 8

357

Tor^nia asidtica

163

Sidum Sieb61du"

Trachym^ne caeriilea 379.425

Solandra Is'vis

258

Trifilium prat^nse

grandifl6ra

258

ripens

Sirgkum halep^nse

Tropae'olum specidsum

5pirae'a Drouetta

285

umbell^tum

224

prunif61ia fl. pi.

190

Vinda Ldw/i

275

5t4tice frut^scens

358

Kerbina AubWti'a

imbricdta

358

Brunette 170

220

Stephanotus floribiindus

88.

Eva

170

329

exquisite 170

220

Stigmaphilon cili4tum

375

eximia 170

220

Strelilzffl augusta

510

Favorite

220

reginae

510

Ferb^na grandissima 170. 220
McCuUough's seedling 170
odordta 170. 220

Polkit 368

Susanna 170. 220

Sylph 220

Verdnica Lindleyana 8. 510
specidsa 8. 142. 379

75
75
44
366
566
221
286
310
32
45

Fibiimuni dentsktuin

plicdtum
Flola tricolor
ViscAria occulAta
Weig^lia r6sea
Wliitfi^'idia laterltia
W'istiria sinensis
Zauschn^ria califurnica
Zea Mays
Z^pidum virginicum

LIST OF FRUITS.

APPLES.

Baldwin 43

.264

Beauty of Kent

250

Benoni

Bough

486

Blue Pearmain

544

Cogswell Pearmain

Early Harvest

115

Early Joe

534

Early Strawberry

488

Foundling

443

Fall Wine

114

Fameuse

533

Garden Royal

Garretson's Early

442

High Top Sweeting

391

Holden Pippin

562

Hooker

533

Hubbardston Nonsuch

264.

544

June

389

Leland Pippin

563

Loring Sweeting

544

Manomet 429

440

May

294

Melon

Minister

264

Monmouth Pippin

141

Mother 141

264

Nonsuch

124

Northern Spy 43. 328

530

Ohio Nonpareil

114

Peck's Pleasant

249

Philips Sweeting

114

Polly Bright

114

Porter

116

Putnam Russet

173

Rhode Island Greening

492

Red Ashmore

114

Red Astrachan

Red Canada

124

Red Quarrenden

Rockport Sweeting

563

Roxbury Russet 112

173

St. Lawrence

531

Springer's Seedling

113

VOL. XIV. B

Summer Queen 488

Summer Rose 17

Summer Sweeting 388

Summer Pearmain 391

Walpole 248

W^ells 113

Western Spy 114

Williams 17. 117

Winter Sweet 328

White Pippin 113

Willow Twig 113

Many varieties noticed 127.
264. 509
Varieties at the Buffalo
Convention 537

CHERRIES.

Bigarreau de Hildersheim 210
Gabaulis - 375

Princess 375

Belle Audigeoise 375

Black Eagle 386

Cerise Indulle 211

Colour de Chair 375

Downer 367

Elton 212. 331

Florence 385

Great Bigarreau de Mezel 211
Louis Philippe 211

Reine Hortense 211

Sparhawk's Honey-heart 375
Tardive de Mons 211

Many varieties enumerated
44. 509

CURRANTS.
Cherry

Knight's Sweet Red
Victoria (May's)

363
365
364

FIGS.

Prown Turkey 245

Brunswick 329

Black Fig of St. Michaels 245.

328

B'ack Tschia
Lee's Perpetual
Nerii

White Genoa
White Marseilles
White Ischia

245. 569
245
245
245

245. 569
245

Varieties enumerated 43. 245

GOOSEBERRIES.
Many varieties noticed 364

GRAPES.

Black Hamburgh 45. 55. 94.
284
Black Hamburgh, Wjlmot's

383

Black Tripoli 331

Black Damascus 55

Black Morocco 55

Black Prince 55

Black Prince Hamburgh 216

Blackstone 564

Catawba 108

Chaptal 427

Fitchburg 564

Frontignan, Grizzly 286

white 45. 284

Muscat, Cannon Hall 55. 252.

460

of Alexandria 252. 286.

383

Eschnlata 217

Portugal 252. 383

Tottenham Park 252. 383

de la mi Aout
Missouri
Moranet
Ohio

Poiteau noir
Syrian
Victoria
While Nice
Zintindal
Many varieties

427

507

429

507

427

566

383

284

43. 127. 193.

265. 277

CONTENTS.

NECTARINES.

Violet Hativc
BeBt sorts

542
542

PEArriES.

Corlidie'H Favorite 331

Early Ciawford 529

Early Tillotsou 486 ]

Early York 4<^6. 529

Sharp's Seedling 375 |

Many varieties noticed 266.
509. 511

PEARS.

Adele St. Denis

Adams (of Q.uincy)

Ananas

Abbott

Arbre Courbe

Belle Apres Noel 6. 109.

Belle de Bruxelles 394.
Belle d'Aout
Beurr^ Renoits

Bosc

Bretonneau 111.

Crapaud 6.

d'Aiijou 6. 202.

Diel

Duval

d'Esperin

Goiibault

GifTard

gris d' hiver Nouveau

Bergamotte d' Esperin

Bleeker's Meadow 339

Beei d' Esperin

Bezi d' Montigny

Bloodgood

Bonne des Zees

Bon Gustave

Bon Chretien Fondante

Williams's
BuflTum

Caplif St. tielene
Cassante de Mars
Catinka
Capsheaf
Calebasse d' Hiver
Coloma
Conile Lelienr
Colmar d'Aremberg 6
Chapman
Crassuue d' Hiver

459
527
6
109
112
209.
459
430
430
459
459
209
205
459
147
62
111
455
111
110.
210
209
532
209
198
394
459

58
146
534

6
111
111
342
111
459
459
110

6
210

Doyenni blanc 532

Boiissock 6. 155

d' Eti 6

Santelete 6. 63

Due de Nemours 111

Duchesse d'Orleans 203

Duchesse d'Angouleme 146
Ellze d' Heyst 209

Excellentissima 6. 110

Eyewood 60

Ferdinand de Meester 6. 110.
205
Figue 6. 65

Fondante de Malines 209

Gansell's Bergamot 200

Henrietta 6

Hull 6

Henri Van Mons 459

Inconnue Van Mons 125

Josephine de Malines 209

Jersey Gratioli 459

Kingsessing 6

Las Canas 6

Lewis 46

Monarch (Knight's) 459. 571
Moccas 60

Napoleon d' Hiver 209

New Long Rosewater 6

Olt's Seedling 424.428

Oliver's Russett

Passe Tardive

Payency

Pendleton's Early York

Pratt

Poire Faurite

Reid's Seedling

Reine des I'oires

Rousselet de Meester

Seckel

f-hurtlelT's Seedling

Soldat Labourer

Snuverain d' Et6

St. Dorothea

St. Germain d'Et6

St. Nicholas

Sleulle

Stevens's Genesee

Surpasse Virgoulouse

Suzettc de Bavay

Swan's Orange

337
111
57
391

6
111

6
112
206
146
109. 243
210
455
6. 110
455

459
451
533
340
210

6. 147. 459.
531
Totten's Seedling 109

Triomphe de Jodolgne 112.
210. 459
Vanqnelin 112

Westcott 109

Williams's Early 344

Scedlinj-B 527. 570

Many varieties noticed 81.

127. 183. 263. 295.

361. 459. 505. 509.

511

PLUMS.

Albany Beauty

Cooper's

152

Denniston's Superb

De Montfort

213

Gen. Hand

508

Green Gage

215

October

215

Monroe

534

Mamelone

214

Rivers's Early Favorite

216

Prolific

216

Reine Claude de Bavay

214

Smith's Orleans

152

St. Martin Rouge

151

Thomas

154

Varieties

509

RASPBERRIES.

Fastolir

377

Large Fruited Monthly

81.

217

Knevet's Giant

377

Varieties

365

STRAWBERRIES.

Aberdeen Beehive 219.

282.

323. 332

380

British Queen

218

Ba\ne's Extra Early 254

.281

Black Prince

323

Boston Pine 228. 254.

281.

328

Eleanor

219

Fay's Seedling

331

Hovey's Seedling 92.

255.

281

364

Iowa

323

Keen's Seedling

282

La Liegoise

219

Montevideo 333

. 380

Primate

424

Primordian

424

Profuse Scarlet

424

Princess Alice Maud

281

Richardson's seedlings

376.

424

Ross's Phoenix

331

.-Stoddard's Washington

323

Turner's Pine

333

Many varieties 81. 225.

255.

364

.448

LIST OF VEGETABLES.

Asparagus 126. 182

Beans, Dwarf Hort. Pole 160
Lima 160. 430

New String 521

8 kinds described 158

Beet, white 521

Bassano 368

bage

419

Caullflowert 410

Atkins

419

Celery, Seymour's White

Nonpareil

419

Solid 368

Pomeranian

121

Cucumber 238

Paragon

419

Black Spine 239

Early Northern

521

Douglas Champion 456

New kind

121

Early Frame 368

CONTENTS.

Cucumber, Man of Kent

238

Melons

410

Rhubarb, Hybrid 326. 368

Manchester Prize

238

Mushrooms 155

276

Seedling 328

Sion House

239

Onion

259

Victoria 287. 326. 328.

Victory of Bath

368

Potato, Biscuit

368

524

Victory of England

368

Mountain pine

368

Squash, Marrow 533

Walker's Prize

331

Sealsfoot

166

Mexican 424

Young's Champion

239

Thirty varieties

Sea Kale 158

Hoosung

326

Seedlings

Scotch Kale 521

Khol Rabi

368

Shepherd's Early

522

Tomatoes 341. 522

Lettuce

326

Forty-five kinds

522

Premiums offered for 1849 139

Artichoke-leaved

326

Peas, Champion of Eng-

Premiums awarded for 1848 98

Malta

326

land

376

Prizes awarded for, 325. 369.

Imperial

326

Early Racehorse

326

555

Silesian

326

Prince Albert

326

Exhibition of, 522

Swedish

326

Rhubarb

158

LIST OF CORRESPONDENTS.

A Correspondent, (Albany,)
A Correspondent, (New York,)
A Horticulturist,
A Subscriber, .
Bayne, Dr. J. H.,
Bissell, J. W., .
Cadness, John, .
Coppock, W. R.,
Crapo, H. H., .
Dewy, C, .
E. W.,

EUwanger <fc Barry,
Editor, 1. 15.

95. 97,

191. 193,

248. 287

351. 383,
486,
G. C. T., .
Goodsell, N.,
Gunnell, Dr. J. S.,
Humrickhouse, T. S.,
J. L. R., .

108
198
289
385,
, 527

19. 34. 47

. 67
. 453
. 550
. 334

255, 281
. 550

395. 398
. 327
. 507
. 238
. 163
. 12
57. 73. 77.

158. 164.

239. 241.

335. 337.

479. 481.

. 544. 571

. 508

437. 542

. 161

294. 388
19. 45. 82. 319

49.
149
220
301
440
.535

J. P. B., .

Johnson, B. P.,

Kelly, M., .

Kennedy, James,

Mackie, John, .

Marshall, A.,

P., . . . .

Pendleton, C. H.,

Philips, M. W.,j

Prince, W. R., .

R., . . . .

R. W. S., .

Russel, Prof. John Lewis,

Rusticus, ...

S., . . . .

Saunders, William, .

Teschemacher, J. E.,

Thorburn, George C,

W. R. P., .

Waddel, J. P., .
Wendel, Dr. H.,
Weed, Dr. J., .
Wood, R. C, .

27,

44. 423
. 368
. 425

155. 492
. 256
. 107

164. 491
. 391
. 189

283. 382
. 94
. 394
31. 71
. 46
. 434

447. 494
. 119
. 445

83
283
145
142

THE MAGAZINE

HORTICULTURE.

JANUARY, 1848.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. A Retrospective View of the Progress of Horticul-
ture in the United States during the year 1847. By the
Editor.

After four successive years of unusual drought in the
Eastern States, that of 1847 was one of more than the aver-
age of moisture ; vegetation of all kinds has been vigorous,
rapid and healthy : crops have been abundant and good, and,
with the exception of the still-continued potato rot, no season
could yield a richer harvest. Fruit trees of all kinds have
made a remarkably fine growth, and, though the fall was
protracted and mild unusually late, the wood ripened well,
and the promise of fruit another season is excellent.

January last was a rather mild and favorable month, with
but little unpleasant weather, and with scarcely any snow.
February was ushered in with snow, continued variable with
more snow, and the last week of the month was severely cold.
March was a rather cold month ; the first week was pleasant
and mild, but, up to the 22d, it continued steadily cold, and
the last week was unusually severe for the season. April
opened more severe than we have known it for several
years; on the 1st, the thermometer stood at only 10°. It
continued quite cold and unpleasant up to the middle of the
month, at which time the frost was not out of the ground suf-
ficiently to plough : it remained unusually cool to the end of
the month. The first week in May was exceedingly cool,
but warm weather succeeded, and, on the 10th, peaches were
in bloom in warm situations ; on the 15th, pears were in bloom,
and, on the 26th, the apples were in full flower. The early

VOL. XIV. NO. I. I

2 Retrospective View of the

part of June was cool, with refreshing showers, and some
damage was done to the blossoms of peach and other fruit
trees in exposed situations. On the 25th, it set in exceeding-
ly warm, with the thermometer at 95°, 96°, 92°, and 92° for
the four successive days ; and the following fortnight was the
only dry weather of the summer. July was fine and warm,
and vegetation, which had been backward, made a most
rapid growth ; frequent showers the last part of the month
were highly refreshing. August commenced with cold east-
erly winds, and a great quantity of rain fell on the 5th, Gth,
and 7th of the month : it continued cool throughout. Sep-
tember was also a cool and rather unpleasant month, with
considerable rain. October was mild and beautiful, and no
frost to injure even the dahlias, was experienced until as late
as the 21st, at which period they were in full bloom ; on the
27th, the cold was very severe, and the thermometer fell as
low as 18° in the vicinity of Boston, — an unusual occur-
rence of cold for the season. Succeeding this, November
opened mild, and continued remarkably fine up to the last
two days, when the temperature again fell exceedingly low,
being only at zero, a greater degree of cold than was experi-
enced any one day during the winter of 1845. This unsea-
sonable weather did not, however, long continue, for Decem-
ber, up to the time we now write, (15th,) has been one of the
mildest since 1832 ; on the 13th, the thermometer stood at 60°
at sunrise.

A finer season for vegetation of all kinds, particularly
shrubs and trees, has not lately been experienced. Pears
have not been so fine and large as in 1846, though the crop
was much more abundant. The crop of apples was scarcely
an average one. The season was never more favorable to the
strawberry, and, as our readers may have noticed, in our
reports of exhibitions, finer specimens were never yet seen
of this delicious fruit. Grapes, owing to the lateness of the
spring and the cool weather in early autumn, did not ripen
near as well as in the average of years : in some situations,
they scarcely attained any sweetness. Peaches were remark-
ably plentiful in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland,
but, in New England, they were not quite so abundant as the
year previous, nor attained the same degree of excellence,
owing to the cool weather of September.

Progress of Horticulture for 1847.

Horticulture,

The great and increasing interest which has been mani-
fested in pomology, has induced us to devote many articles
to the subject, and, among those in the last volume, are sev-
eral of great value to cultivators. The pear and the grape,
two of the most valued and delicious fruits our gardens can
claim, have been particularly treated upon. In our several
articles, we have described twenty-four varieties of pears,
some of which were entirely new, and never described by any
author : among them have been some American varieties of
rare merit. In addition to these, our correspondents have
noticed some of the choicest sorts, and commended their ex-
cellence : of the number, we may mention the article of Mr.
Walker (p. 118). Our Pomological Notices (p. 448) have also
enumerated several very new and recently introduced native
varieties.

Upon the cultivation of the pear, our readers undoubtedly
recollect the capital article of Mr. Rivers, nurseryman near
London, whose place we have before noticed in our Foreign
Tour, (Vol. XL p. 169,) whose collection of pears is one of the
best in England, and whose experience in their cultivation is
very extensive. It is well worthy of the most attentive peru-
sal. We have repeatedly spoken of the superiority of the
quince stock for the pear, for garden cultivation, in our notes
of our Foreign Tour, when we had an opportunity to exam-
ine the trees in the London Horticultural Society's Garden,
in the Jardin des PI antes and Gardens of the Luxembourg
at Paris, as well as numerous private gardens, both in Eng-
land and France ; and all subsequent experience, practically,
has convinced us that it should be recommended to all cul-
tivators. Mr. Rivers has, indeed, demonstrated this, if bet-
ter demonstration be needed. We have, however, much
information, derived from our experience, that we shall, ere
long, offer to cultivators. Actual knowledge is what is need-
ed, and the want of this has often been the means of preju-
dicing many against the use of the quince stock ; it is well
known that many sorts of pears will not unite kindly with
the quince, and the consequence is, that, in a year or two,

4 Retrospeciive View of the

the tree languishes and dies : this by some is set down as
proof that the quince will not answer: if, however, a good
list was at hand, that cultivators might know what those
kinds are which will not succeed, they could guard against
such disappointment, and their prejudice be thus dispelled.
This is what we hope, ere long, to be able to give. Mr. Riv-
ers has added a list of such kinds as do well upon the quince
at the page referred to, and also a list of such as will not suc-
ceed ; but this should be extended to the whole catalogue of
good sorts. Many of our native pears, of which Mr. Rivers
has had no experience, seem particularly obnoxious to the
quince, and we have seen trees four years old and not two
feet high.

Double grafting obviates this, as Mr. Rivers has stated;
and it should therefore be the duty of every nurseryman, no
less than the pleasure of every cultivator, to have on hand a
good stock of those kinds which unite kindly, and grow rap-
idly upon the quince. Upon these can be grafted what are
termed the "refractory" varieties, and thus, with only the
loss of one more year, every variety of the pear can be pro-
duced upon the quince.

The thorn, the mountain ash, and the apple, have been
recommended as a stock for the pear : of the latter, our cor-
respondent, Mr. Humrickhouse, has already shown, (Vol.
XII. p. 393,) that it cannot be relied upon with any hope of
good or profitable results : the same may, we think, be said
of the mountain ash. The thorn, from what little experience
we have had, we think much more favorably of Seckel
pears in our collection, now four years old, have grown ad-
mirably, and the last year produced some fruit : but success
will depend upon the union of the stock and scion below the
ground, to prevent the latter from overgrowing the former, and
endangering the tree from high winds.

The culture of the grape has greatly extended within a
few years, and the superiority of the fruit over that of former
years attests the attention which has been bestowed upon its
cultivation. We have endeavored, by a series of articles in
our several volumes, to give all the information which the
amateur could want in the management of the grapery or cold
house : and, in our last volume, our article on its growth in

Progress of Horticulture for 1847. 5

the conservatory or greenhouse, accompanied with a record
of the daily temperature, &c., we trust has been found to
answer the object intended : our diary for the treatment of the
grape in the hothouse has been commenced, and, at a future
time, we shall give the results in the same style as in the arti-
cle alluded to.

The subject of root-pruning has been fully elucidated in
our last volume ; and the most skeptical cannot fail to be in-
terested in the discussion, if not convinced of its utility. Re-
peated transplantation, to accomplish the desired object of
early bearing, is acknowledged by all ; and how far does root-
pruning differ from transplantation ? In no respect, save that
it is unnecessary, as it often may be inconvenient, to remove
the tree. It attains the desired object. The mere removal of
the tree would be of no avail if the larger roots were not rent
asunder, and root-pruning does this, at the same time reserv-
ing, what is most important in transplanting all trees, the
fibrous roots.

The cultivation of the peach in cold houses has been ably
treated upon in an article by Mr. Cowan, (p. 204.) The
peach crop is so likely to be injured or cut off in the New
England States, that its cultivation under glass is increasing.
To those who are introducing it into cold houses, either alone,
or with the grape, Mr. Cowan's experience will be read with
great interest. Root-grafting the peach has been mentioned,
by our correspondent. Dr. Philips, (p. 49,) as a very successful
mode of propagating it, producing a fine head the first season,
and performed with every certainty of success. No great ad-
vantage can be gained by this mode of propagation over that
of budding. Still it may be practised in some cases where
budding has been neglected, and a season saved in securing
some new and valuable variety.

Some new varieties of the strawberry have been recently
produced in Ohio, an account of which we have given at p.
367. Their qualities have been rather highly praised, but
they require the test of longer cultivation to establish their
merits. It is somewhat doubtful, however, if they have not
been overrated. Some writer, in noticing the report of the
Cincinnati Horticultural Society upon Mr. Burr's seedlings,
has pertinently asked, "Are they as good as the old sorts'?"
1*

6 Retrospective View of the

'' Are they better 7" " Do they supply any deficiency in the
old sorts?" or " inwhat respect do they claim admission among
standard strawberries 7" These certainly are proper ques-
tions for the committee to answer. Seven 7iew seedlings are
named and described, and those who purchase ought to know
what different qualities they can possess that should entitle
them to a name. A strawberry may be remarkably early,
remarkably late, or remarkably large and high-flavored, but
beyond these three great characteristics, it will be difficult to
raise new kinds which will excel, or even equal, the old ones.
Among the new pears which have fruited this year for the
first time, the following have proved valuable : — St. Dorothee,
a November pear of good size ; Excellentissima, another of
the same season, large and fine ; Belle Apres Noel, a winter
fruit, handsome and excellent. Others which have proved
desirable are the Reid's Seedling, Swan's Orange, Kingsess-
ing, Captif St. Helene, Doyenne Santelete, Ferdinand de
Meester, Henrietta, Chapman, Figue, Colmar d'Aremberg.
The experience of another season has also confirmed the high
character of the Hull, Beurre d'Anjou, Doyenne Boussock,
Pratt, Doyenne d'Ete, Beurre Crapaud, Ananas, Las Can as,
&c. Many new apples have been noticed, and several de-
scribed and figured ; but we would refer to the articles them-
selves, as also to the articles which we have commenced, de-
scribing and figuring new plums and cherries.

Floriculture.

The increase of floral taste has not been so great as the
ardent amateur could wish. The interest of many cultivators
has been drawn away by the engrossing subject of fruit cul-
ture : not that we would be understood to say it has every-
where been so ; but, in the vicinity of Boston, we regret that
this has been the case ; for no one could have witnessed the
exhibitions of the last three years and not perceive this. Very
large premiums have been awarded to collections of fruit,
and, though those for flowers have been liberal, they have
been too small, in comparison with the former, to secure that
interest which is the sure indication of an increasing taste for
fine objects of culture. We hope, however, to report a bet-

Progress of Horticulture for 1847. 7

ter state of things, and we have good reason to beheve that
something will be done to restore the former interest in this
department of gardening.

In our last volume, we have endeavored to awaken a greater
zeal among cultivators for the growth of that brilliant plant,
the pelargonium, which is now eliciting so much attention in
England, and which forms one of the main objects of attrac-
tion at all the great floral shows of the London Horticultural,
and Royal Botanic Societies, of London. No person has done
more to improve this beautiful flower than Mr. Beck, whose
article, complete in every particular, we gave in our last vol-
ume, (p. 34,) and also a descriptive list of his seedlings. Few
of our cultivators know to what perfection of culture the pel-
argonium may be brought in the hands of good gardeners :
they are not the lean, lank, and spindling plants we have been
used to see, with a few straggling trusses of flowers on the
top ; but they are now stout, dwarf, and immense plants, ten
feet in circumference, and covered with a profusion of flowers
and foliage, which render them unequalled as specimens of
skill and beauty.

That exquisite tribe of plants, the heath, has been admi-
rably treated upon by Mr. Cadness, (p. 167.) Indeed, we
know not when we have given our readers an article more
thoroughly practical. If the heath is not often seen in a
healthy and flourishing condition, it will not be for want of
information, but rather for the neglect of applying it to their
growth and treatment.

The science of culture has been most ably elucidated by
the admirable papers of Mr. Kennedy, in which the propaga-
tion of plants, by all the modes in general use, has been laid
down in the plainest and most concise manner. To these
we may refer the young practitioner, as well as the more ex-
perienced amateur, for all the information they may need to
propagate successfully, so far as it can be done without the
aid of long-continued experience. In connexion with Mr.
Kennedy's articles, we may also refer to the many valuable
extracts in our Foreign Notices, which embrace all the really
useful information which we could glean from our foreign
periodicals. The dahha, (p. 229,) Azalea, (p. 326,) Pansy,
(p. 327,) Tea Rose, (p. 416,) Scarlet Pelargonium, &c., are

8 Reti'ospective View of the

instances of the thorough manner in which these articles have
been written.

Some new plants have been added to our collections the past
year, the most noted of which are ^Inemone japonica, a fine
half-hardy (or hardy) herbaceous plant, flowering late in au-
tumn; Campdnula nobilis, also a hardy plant; Ver^oiiica
Lindleyd/ia, not so showy as speciosa, but rather a desirable
plant ; Abutilon venosum, similar to the old striatum, but with
flowers more than twice the size ; Schubertia graveolens, a
climbing plant of great fragrance and beauty ; Calystegia pu-
bescens, also a beautiful climber, and likely to form a valua-
ble summer plant for the open air ; Cestrum aurantiacum, a
remarkably showy fall flowering plant, with deep yellow
blossoms. Many new and fine phloxes have been introduced,
the most distinct of which are, Standard of Perfection, Spec-
ulum, Goethe, Fleur de Marie, Cromwell, and Eclipse. The
rapid improvement in this flower shows how much may be
accomplished by the well-directed efforts of zealous amateurs.
Few plants have added more to the beauty of our greenhouses,
during the summer, than the different species of Achimenes,
of which we now have ten or twelve kinds : the new ones are
patens and Lehmanii, both dwarf, growing and desirable
plants.

The great similarity of many of the new kinds of fuchsias
has disappointed purchasers, and, consequently, but few have
been introduced the last year ; these few, however, have been
rather distinct and desirable ; Acantha, a new light one, with
pure white sepals, and a bright corolla ; Nymph, with blush
sepals and pink corolla ; Empress, Lady of the Lake, Sir H.
Pottinger, Vesta, and Mrs. Milbank, are also fine varieties.
The management of the fuchsia does not appear to be well
understood by our cultivators, for we have seen but few such
fine specimens as we noticed in various collections in England.
Macrantha, serratifolia, and corallina, three splendid new
species, remain yet to be introduced.

Arboriculture.

It is gratifying to see a greater taste extending for fine orna-
mental trees, particularly the weeping kinds and the Coniferse.

Progress of Horticulture for 1847. 9

The Paiilownia, the Deodar cedar, the cedar of Lebanon, the
Liicombe oak, the Araucaria imbricata, and other equally
fine trees, are now prominent articles in the catalogues of every
extensive nursery establishment. Each of them have stood
the winter as far north as the latitude of New York, and all
have been tried, except the Araucaria, in that of Boston, and
found perfectly hardy. The latter, we hope to make a trial
of another winter, when the plants are stronger. Nothing
will add more to the beauty of a place than a good variety of
the finer Coniferae, such as the above kinds, the true Silver Fir,
Norway Spruce, Siberian Arbor Vitae, &c.

The weeping trees, and smaller ornamental trees, grafted
as standards, are also fine objects for lawns, or for situations
where they will form prominent features of the landscape.
The weeping elm, beech, lime, mountain ash, oak, hornbeam,
ash, &c., are of the former class, and the amelanchiers, pru-
nuses, cratseguses, sorbuses, lilacs, &c., of the latter.

The only thing now wanting to introduce more speedily all
the finer ornamental trees into general cultivation, is the
establishment of arboretums, or, if not arboretums, according
to the construction of the late Mr. Loudon, plantations of
specimen trees, where the habit of growth, peculiarity of foli-
age, general aspect, and all other characteristics, can be dis-
tinctly seen by the purchaser. Some definite idea can then
be formed of each and every tree, and their desirableness for
the purposes of ornamental landscape. This plan has been
adopted by all the leading commercial gardens of Britain, and
the consequence has been an immensely greater demand for
trees of every description. Those who rely upon the nursery
row to show ofi" their stock, will be left behind, and their limited
sales will be the best evidence of their want of industry and
intelligence, in keeping up with the advancing spirit of arbor-
icultural improvement.

The great pertinacity with which our people adhere to one
thing cannot be better exemplified, than in the general desire
to plant elm trees in preference to all others. We certainly
shall not deny the magnificence of a fully grown elm ; but
yet we would by no means plant it in front of every dwelling :
there are several other trees which are equally as well, and, in
many instances, where the house is near to the street, much

10 Retrospective View of the

better adapted for the purpose. The silver maple is one of
these, growing with the rapidity of the elm, forming a grace-
ful head, with beautiful silvery foliage, oftentimes a droop-
ing spray, and with one of the cleanest and smoothest barks
of all our many fine trees. Michaux states that, on the Ohio,
where it grows abundantly, he always "contemplated it with
unwearied admiration," We would highly recommend it as
one of the most attractive shade trees we possess.

Rural Architecture.

Rural Architecture has received less of our attention in the
past volume than in many of the preceding ones : this has not
been, however, on account of there being less interest mani-
fested in it, but rather from the greater desire for pomologi-
cal information.

The taste for cottage and villa residences has undergone a
great change within a few years. Formerly, every dwelling
was formed after some Grecian model, and without the thought
of fitness or propriety, farmhouses, schoolhouses, banks,
churches, &c,, were all the same unmeaning representation of
some Grecian temple. Now the rural Gothic prevails, and
with the same ambitious desire to make every building, no
matter how humble, complete in all its details — the same un-
meaning expression is stamped on all. Verge boards and
gables, without any reference to the form, or size, of the
building, are the features which are to give it the Gothic air.
This is to be much regretted. But the only remedy lies in
the dissemination of a true architectural taste. Few men
who build know what they in reality want ; they entrust,
therefore, their views to the carpenter rather than the archi-
tect, and with the idea, too common with many of the former,
of mistaking profuseness of decoration for beauty and ex-
pression, often destroy the completeness of a very well arranged
plan.

Many very beautiful villas have been erected in the vicin-
ity of Boston, and the improvement of the cottage architec-
ture of New England generally has been very great ; there is
yet room, however, for still greater improvement. We hope
to find the opportunity, in the course of the present volume,

Progress of Hoi'ticulture for 1847. 11

to give some plans which will aid in disseminating the taste
which is now accomplishing so much for Rural Improve-
ment.

Commercial Gardening.

The demand for trees and plants continues to be nearly
equal to the supply, notwithstanding the increased number of
nurseries which spring into notice every year. This increase
of taste is gratifying to every lover of Rural Improvement,
and more particularly as it is not confined to the immediate
vicinity of our cities and flourishing towns, but extends to the
remotest parts of the country. We have recently had sent to
us a catalogue of a nursery in Wisconsin, which contains more
than twice as many kinds of fruit as the catalogues of some of
the most extensive nurserymen around Boston or New York
twenty-five years ago.

In the vicinity of Boston, the greatest demand has been for
pear trees : many new kinds have been added to the various
nursery collections, and the proprietors are increasing their
stock as rapidly as possible. In Salem, Mr. Manning, as
heretofore, has fruited the largest number of varieties of any
one establishment in the country : scions of nearly or quite all
of them, amounting to three or four hundred kinds, are offered
for sale from bearing trees. Messrs. Putnam of the same city
have a fine stock of young pear trees, which, in the course of
a year or two, will be ready for sale.

Messrs. Winship and the Kenricks have, as usual, large
and good stocks of trees : Messrs. Hovey &■ Co. have added
very largely to their stock of all kinds of trees. The number
of specimen pear trees planted on the borders of the walks
has been increased the past year to a thousand^ more than one
hundred kinds of which are now in a fine bearing state. About
eighty varieties of cherries, and a great number of plums and ap-
ples, also promise a fine crop the coming season. Messrs. Wilder,
Walker, and other cultivators, have quite a number of trees
ready for sale.

In Worcester, Lowell, Plymouth, New Bedford, Springfield,
Providence, and other large towns and cities, new nurseries
have been recently established, and the older ones have greatly
increased their stock and facilities, for supplying trees.

12 Norton^ s Meloti Apple.

In New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and other southern
and western cities, we have no returns from our correspond-
ents, but we believe a very large and profitable business has
been done the last year.

Garden Literature.

The year has not been prolific in Horticultural publica-
tions : the principal works have been reprints, and new
editions. Bridgman's Ga?'de?ier^s Assistant has passed to a
new edition ; Downing's Fruits and Fruit Trees has also
reached the seventh edition, and the colored copy, with 70
plates, has also appeared; a Dictionary of Modern Gardening
by G. W. Johnson, edited by D. Landreth ; a new edition of
the New England Book of Fruits. The new works are.
The Cidture of the Grape by J. F. Allen : The Rose^ its His-
tory, <^'c., by S. B. Parsons, which will be reviewed in a
future number ; and our Fruits of America, a new periodical
to appear every other month, in royal octavo and quarto size,
with elegant colored plates, three numbers of which have
already appeared. Part VIII. of Colman's European Agri-
culture has appeared ; and two more numbers complete the
work.

Art. II. Norton^ s Melon Apple. By Messrs. Ellwanger &.
Barry, Nurserymen, Rochester, N. Y.

Dear Sir, — The apple which you figured and described in
the last number of your Magazine as the " Melon," was de-
scribed by us, in the Albany Cultivator of February 1845, and
in the Boston Cidtivator of March of the same year, as '' Nor-
ton's Melon," as you will find by referring to these papers.
We prefixed " Norton's," as we then stated, " to designate it
more particularly," as there was another apple in this vicin-
ity which has been known and cultivated as the "Water
Melon" for upwards of thirty years, and as we obtained the
first specimens of the fruit which brought it to our notice
from Major Reuben Norton of Bloomfield, in whose orchard,

Nortoji's Melon Apple. 13

and that of his neighbor, Mr. Chapin, who either brought it
from the east, or originated it, the only old trees that we know
of, now stand.

Since we first noticed it, we have propagated and dissem-
inated it extensively mider the above name, being, in our
opinion, a fruit of the first quality of its season. We have
repeatedly sent specimens to eastern pomologists with the
view to identify it with some eastern variety, as it was a
matter of uncertainty whether itAvas brought from the east or
originated in Bloomfield, but we have not been able to trace it
to any other source than that where we first found it. Our
description and yours agree pretty closely, but you err in sea-
son of use. Instead of " September and October," it is in eat-
ing from October till March : we have eaten them in fine con-
dition in the middle of the latter month.

It is somewhat strange that Mr. Smith, in communicating
with your society, should have overlooked these facts in the
history of this fruit. It could not be unworthy of note that it
had been described three years ago, in the leading journal of
Agriculture and Horticulture in the state where it was found
and ever since propagated and sold, under the name then given'
for plain and proper reasons.

We have thought it might be well to place these facts be-
fore you and your readers, for the purpose of preserving, as
far as possible, uniformity of nomenclature, an object which,
we are happy to know, your society and others have already
taken some new and important measures to attain.

Rochester, N. Y., December 1847.

Had we been aware of any description of the new apple in'
question, we should have looked it up before the publication
of our own. The agricultural papers of the country are now
so numerous that we do not pretend to look out the little po-
mological information which they may occasionally contain.
Messrs. Ellwanger & Barry have long been our correspond-
ents, and if any new fruits had come to their notice, we sup-
posed they would have communicated the descriptions through
our pages, where they would meet the eye of all the principal
cultivators in the country. It is scarcely to be expected that
pomologists will look to agricultural papers for descriptive

VOL. XIV. — NO. I. 2

14 Norton^ s Melon Apple.

accounts of new fruits, when there are the legitimate chan-
nels— Horticultural periodicals — for the express purpose of
communicating such information ; and this instance only
shows the importance of describing fruits where they will
come immediately before cultivators. If the above apple had
been thus merely noticed, we should have at once referred to
the first published name : this would have prevented the
accumulation of synonymes : as it now is, this variety has
been described under three names, all of which would have
been avoided, had our correspondents sent their account of it
to us. The Massachusetts Horticultural Society have recent-
ly described it as the Water-melon, the fruit committee not
knowing any thing of the apple except what was communi-
cated in Mr. Smith's letter.

We are aware that the Massachusetts Horticultural Soci-
ety, and some other Horticultural Societies, have recently
announced certain rules which they have established for
" American Pomology." We intend soon to notice them at
length, and give our objections to such a standard of rules.
To arrive at a correct nomenclature, pomologists have only
to be governed by one rule — priority of name. If this is done,
but few synonymes would find a place in our catalogues of
fruits.

Since the above came to hand, we have taken the pains to
look up the article referred to in the Boston Cultivator, and,
after a careful reading of the account of the Melon apple, we
do not see any reason to alter our name. Our correspondents
say that it was known " as the Melon apple, and that they
have prefixed the name of Mr. Norton, from whom they re-
ceived the scions." Nothing is said about another apple
known as the Water-melon. This, however, does not make
a material difference. If it was well known as the " Melon,"
and cultivated under that ^name, that must be considered the
legitimate title. The simple fact of receiving the scions from
Mr. Norton would not justify the addition of his name. On
such slight grounds, we might alter the name of every fruit
under cultivation. If we recollect rightly, Mr. Barry has
already conceded this in the Genessee Farmer, where he
properly repudiates the re-naming of fruits, and, in a notice of
the Oswego Beurre pear, adheres to the legitimate name of

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Apples. 15

Reid's Seedling, under which it was well known and long
cultivated, previous to a published description of it under the
cognomen of the Oswego Beurre.

We have some remarks in preparation on the subject of
nomenclature of fruits ; but we must repeat that, beyond the
rule we have already announced, as governing us — priority
of name — but little can be offered other than suggestions as to
the best means of preventing an accumulation of synonymes.

Our drawing of the Melon is the exact size of two or more
of the specimens sent by Mr. Smith to the Massachusetts Hor-
ticultural Society. Not having, as we have already observed,
seen any description of it previous to our account, we stated
the season to be October and November, {iiot September and
October,) at which time those we tasted were nearly all over-
ripe.— Ed.

Art. III. Descriptions and Engravings of Select Varieties
of Apples. By the Editor.

We continue our descriptions of the finer kinds of apples
from our last volume, and, during the year, we shall make
many additions to the number already described.

So much attention has been bestowed upon the pear, that
the apple has not received that notice due to its importance as
one of the most valuable fruits we possess. Much confusion
exists in the nomenclature of the apple, and it will be a prin-
cipal object, no less than to give a full description of the fruit,
to aid in establishing correct names, identifying kinds, and
detecting synonymes.

X. Red Astrachan. Hort. Sac. Cat. 3d Ed.

The Red Astrachan, {fig. 1,) is a tolerably Avell known,
much esteemed, and an exceedingly beautiful apple. It is a
native of Sweden, and was first imported into England about
the year 1816, when it fruited in the garden of Mr. Atkinson,
of Grove End, near London. At what period it was intro-
duced into this country, we are not aware; but it is a com-

16 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Apples.

paratively new, and but little disseminated variety. Its ear-
liness, combined with its great beauty and good quality, will
claim for it a place in every collection. The skin is covered
with a bloom as rich and beautiful as a plum.

Fig. 1 . Red Astrachan.

Size, large, about three inches broad, and two and a half
deep : Form, roundish, flattened at the base, and narrowing
little towards the eye : Skin, very fair, smooth, rich brilliant
crimson on the sunny side, paler in the shade, though occa-
sionally little greenish, sometimes russeted around the stem,
dotted with large yellow specks, and covered with a thin
whitish bloom : Stem, short, about half an inch in length,
rather stout, straight, and moderately inserted in a broad,
rather shallow basin : Eye, rather large, partially closed, and
slightly depressed in a broad, shallow, and somewhat ridged
basin : Flesh, white, with occasional stains of pink, fine, crisp,
and tender: Juice, tolerably abundant, subacid and good:
Core, large, rather close : Seeds, small, ovate. Ripe in Au-
gust and September.

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Apples. 17

XI. Benoni. American Orchardist.

The Benoni, {fig. 2,) is one of the finest of our native early-
apples, possessing a sprightly, rich, and high flavor. Com-
pared with the Williams, Summer Rose, Red Quarrenden,
and others of its season, it is decidedly superior to either of
them, and it merits a prominent place in every choice collec-
tion of apples.

It was first introduced to notice by Mr. E. M. Richards of
Dedham, who sent us a brief account of it in our first
volume, (p. 363.) It had, however, been previously noticed
by Mr. Kenrick, in the first edition of the American Orchard-
ist. It originated in Dedham, where the original tree is still
growing. It is a most abundant bearer every other year.
The growth of the tree is vigorous and erect. Its period of
maturity is between the Williams and Summer Pearmain.

Benoni.

Size, medium, about two and a half inches broad, and two
and a half deep : Form, roundish, narrowing towards the
crown, which is angular : Skin, fair, smooth, deep yellow
or orange, distinctly striped with red and dark crimson, and
covered with scattered whitish specks : Stem, very short,
scarcely half an inch in length, slender, and deeply inserted in
a rather contracted cavity : Eye, rather large, partially open,
and considerably sunk in a deep, open, furrowed basin : Flesh,

18 DescripiioTis of Select Varieties of Apples.

yellow, fine, crisp, and tender : Juice, abundant, rich, vinous,
high-flavored, and excellent : Core, medium size, close : Seeds,
medium size, pale brown. Ripe in August and September.

XII. Garden Royal.

Mr. Manning, of the Pomological Garden, first introduced
this apple, {fig. 3,) to our notice, and, the past season, gave
us some fine specimens, from which our drawing and descrip-
tion have been made. It originated in Sudbury, on the farm
of Mr. D. Bouker, and the original tree now produces very
fine crops, which bring a good price in the market. It is cer-
tainly one of the tenderest fleshed apples we have ever eaten,
and possesses a flavor as delicate as some pears. It is rather
below medium size, but it is of regular form, and a very hand-
some fruit. We esteem it as one of the very best apples un-
der cultivation ; its size only prevents it from being placed at
the head of all our early autumn apples.

Fig. 3. Garden Royal.

Size, medium, about two and a half inches broad, and two
and a half deep : Form, round, very regular, and slightly flat-
tened at each end : Skin, fair, smooth, with a rich, deep yellow
ground, nearly covered with distinct stripes of deep orange-red
and dark crimson, and dotted with scattered yellow specks :
Stem, short, about half an inch in length, slender, straight, and

Notes on some of our Native Plants. 19

deeply inserted in a regular cavity : Eye^ small, partially closed,
and moderately sunk in a medium-sized, slightly furrowed ba-
sin ; segments of the calyx long, twisted : i^/e^/i, yellowish, tinged
with pink, fine, crisp, and remarkably tender : Juice^ abun-
dant, pleasantly acid, and vinous, with a rich, spicy aroma :
Core, rather close : Seeds, rather large, light brown. Ripe in
September.

Art. IV. Note upon Denniston' s Superb and Albany Beauty
Plums. By the Editor.

In onr December number of the last volume, (XIII. p. 531,)
we described four varieties of plums, raised by Mr. Dennis-
ton, in his celebrated plum garden at Albany.

The fruits from which we made our descriptions and en-
gravings were kindly sent to us by our correspondent. Dr. H.
Wendell, of Albany, who gathered them in company with Mr.
Denniston, from the original trees in his garden. By some
mistake, however, probably in the hurry of packing, the
names which accompanied the . specimens were accidentally
transposed, for we learn from Dr. Wendell, that the variety
described by us as the Albany Beauty is Denniston' s Superb,
and Denniston's Superb ihe Albany Beauty.

We are glad, therefore, to be able to make this early correc-
tion of the error in regard to these two fine varieties.

Art. V. Notes o?i some of our Native Plants.
By J. L. R.

Whoever is familiar with the white-pine woods of New
England, must have observed a species of evergreen-leaved
plant that is their most common inhabitant. Its rich, dark
green, glossy leaves, supported on upright stalks and radiating
somewhat in a verticillate manner, may be seen among the
fallen needle-shaped foliage of the pines, contrasting their own
vividness with the sere and brown carpeting which the latter

20 Notes on some of our Native Plants.

forms. Its root is long, and creeps just beneath the soil,
scarcely distinguishable from the stem, unless by its scattered
fibres : the stem itself ascends to the height of about six
inches in length, of a tough and somewhat woody consistence,
bearing the leaves on the summit. These are not properly
verticillate, or whorled ; for sometimes, two or three partial
verticils may be found : they are one or two inches long, half
to three quarters of an inch wide, sharply serrate on each
edge, smooth, shining, thick, and coriaceous, rather obtuse at
the end, but tapering at base to a short petiole. From the
bosom of the upper whorl, arises a peduncle or common
flower-stalk, bearing four to six flowers. The beauty of
these, forms one of the most attractive instances of early sum-
mer elegance. They can be compared to nothing so well as
to the unique 'flowers of Hoya carnosa, the asclepiadeous
runner, which is such a favorite of the greenhouse ; having
the same artificial or artistical waxen contour and finish.
The petals are unlike^ however, in being obovate and con-
cave, of a reddish white, with a violet tinge; while the style
of inflorescence is also distinct. Although having no botan-
ical affinity, yet one is reminded of the latter plant, from the
peculiar beauty of the former. At least, such has been often
the case with me ; and I have sometimes doubted which of
the two was really the most attractive.

The reminiscence of this very common plant carries us
back from the present cold and wintry aspect to those de-
lightful balmy days of June, or more ardent ones of July,
when the murmur of the wind among the pine tops invites to
quiet and repose, and tempts us to stretch ourselves at ease on
the sweet and soft carpet of the ground beneath, breathing
spicy and terebinthine odors, considered so salubrious as well
as, in reality they are, grateful. There are not many flowers
which court these shades, and scarcely can any underbrush
or smaller growth of woody plants flourish in the glimmering
shade of the white-pine woods. The few delicate species
which obtain, seem, on this account, all the more attractive ;
while there reigns an air of indescribable comfort, in which
the senses, though not inactive, are yet inclined to calmness
and self-possession. The trees themselves are objects of sin-
gular beauty: and there is scarcely any forest tree which

Notes on some of our Native Plants. 21

possesses so many advantages of attraction. Constantly in
verdure, and flourishing in compact and comparatively close
proximity to each other, a young growth of white pines could
not escape notice. Whorl above whorl in regular succession,
each marking the annual upward increase, the bright green
bark, almost entirely free from any mossy or parasitical ad-
herents of lichens or such minute vegetation, the slender, ta-
per, and graceful leading-shoot, the long needle-shaped leaves,
with the aspect of healthy vigor, contrasting strangely with
the nature of the soil, — all these cause the white pine to be
equally attractive, whether under cultivation or in natural
growth. It is, accordingly, becoming a popular tree for plant-
ing in rows on the borders of parks or pleasure grounds, gar-
dens needing protection from the winds, and for covering light
and sandy tracts with a most valuable produce.

As the growth of the white pine copses or native woods
increases, there is observable that struggling for possession
which the laws of nature seem to dictate for self-preservation.
A thinning process goes on rapidly through the greater vigor
of some of the trees overtopping and burying in shade the
others, which slowly die, like the lower whorls of branches
on the larger trees themselves. A young growth and an old
forest scarcely seem identical in species, — the first intertangled
with horizontal whorls of pliable branches, the latter resem-
bling some stately columns of some grand building, with
sighing or sweetly sounding aisles, echoing with the music of
the solitary thrush, as it pours forth its mellifluous song from
the topmost twig of the loftiest and most towering of the
growth. As the trees grow older, their trunks become more
rugged in bark, and the lichens predominate over other para-
sitical forms. In the chinks, are purple Jungermannias, with
occasional tufts of Orthotrichum ; at the base, are dot-like
Lecideas, and disk-shaped Lecanoras, and wart-like Verruca-
rias. A few of the stellate forms of Parmelia may be found
here and there ; and, perhaps, a waving tuft of gray U'snea
is occasionally pendent from the dead lower limbs.

The white pine, called by botanists Pinus ^Strobus, is con-
sidered in England a fine tree, being introduced into that
country from Canada upwards of a century ago, and known
under the title of its first propagator there, as the Weymouth

22 Notes on some of our Native Plants.

pine. It is agreed that it is the most stately tree of our for-
ests, rising in a straight cokmm to the height of even one hun-
dred and forty feet. Some have been known greatly to ex-
ceed this measurement ; the size, in length of trunk and girth,
seeming to depend on the soil in which it grows. There
seems indeed to be scarcely any other native tree of so much
importance, so wonderfully adapted to different soils, as is
this. I have seen it transplanted with perfect success on the
most arid sandy plains and hills, where scarcely any thing
seemed to compose the soil but sharp and minute angular
particles of quartz, the residuum of the granitic formations
about this section of the State. An analysis of such drifting
sands would, however, probably detect a considerable portion
of alkalis, with more or less woody or vegetable matter, accu-
mulating from the decay of those hardier grasses, which dare
to grow in company with the exquisite Polygonum articula-
tum, and a few such like plants. Then, again, vigorous
growths will suddenly spring up on our old ploughed fields,
when they have been disturbed by the plough after several
years of neglect of culture. On some such lands, this forest
growth becomes, by far, the most profitable crop the farmer
can raise, and repays all his care to protect it from injury.
In rocky pastures may be found clusters of these trees attain-
ing great size ; and in draining low and swampy spots, to
procure peat for fuel or to restore them to a more valuable
produce, such as the English grasses for hay, roots of this
species of pine, of immense size, are found deep beneath the
surface, intermingling themselves like some gigantic net-work,
and denoting a most luxuriant vegetation on spots which
must have been little more than quagmires, and at a period
before the memory of the earlier settlers. These roots indi-
cate scarcely any traces of decay, and present to the axe an
inner surface perfectly sound, and apparently imperishable.
In some portions of the country, where fuel is abundant, they
are set up on edge, or with the under surface facing the road
which bounds the fields enclosed, to make rude fences, in
which position they are said to last upwards of an hundred
years ; and where wood, as an article of fuel, is more scarce,
these roots are cut transversely into properly-sized portions,
split, stacked, and dried for use as an article of combustion.

Notes on some of our Native Plants. 23

The position of such roots in sunken and sphagnous spots,
may throw some light on the origin of the coals, such as
bituminous and anthracite. Centuries may be requisite to
convert these woody structures into such coals ; and yet some
sudden cataclysms, such as doubtless often occurred in the
larger coal regions, producing immense pressure which these
vegetable masses would sustain, by the sinking of the soil
or overwhelming of it by a change in its position, might so
modify beds of sunken vegetable matter as to convert them
into combustible coals, in which the original structure would
yet be preserved. Delicate sections of our American coals,
submitted to the microscope, have indicated the organic struc-
ture of the Conifcrm ; and at this moment there may be
existing around us, the "Vestiges of Creation" of similar
processes as were in existence when paroxysmal upheavings
of the earth's surface changed the aspect of this continent.

The white pine grows with exceeding rapidity when we
consider its great value. Transplanted, as I have already
stated, it flourishes with remarkable vigor. The best season
of the year for doing this, is from the middle of April to the
first of June. At this time, the young shoots for the next
year's development are pushing; and even when these are
two or three inches long, they can be safely transplanted. I
have seen plantations of hundreds made in this way, with
scarcely a failure, and lately heard of a similar one with
equal success.

In some years, the seeds are produced in great abundance.
These are contained in long, slender, cylindrical, and rather
curved cones, made up of numerous loose scales. A seedling
pine attains, the first year, to the height of two or three
inches. Numerous specimens of such infant trees may be
found under any old trees, few of which, however, arrive at
maturity, or attain to any size, unless at some distance from
the parent stem. The seeds may be loosened from the cones
by spreading the latter in some warm, suimy place, free from
mice, where they will spontaneously open and the seed will
fall out. Each seed is furnished with a thin, chafly vane or
wing, which needs rubbing off, before sowing. Artificially
sown from seed, they may be drilled thinly in rows where
destined to remain, or more closely for subsequent thinning

24 Notes on some of our Native Plaiits.

and transplanting. Some plant the entire cone, which is
done in the case of the pitch pi7ie, whose cone is smaller and
more rigid ; but this must be an evident waste in both cases.
Any light, thin land will answer for such nurseries, perhaps
better in consequence of being freer from weeds and less val-
uable for other culture.

The recollection of the susw'ring of the lofty pines, and of
their agreeable shade in summer, quite led me away from my
little sylvan favorite which grows beneath them, and expands
its exquisite blossoms year by year, as the estival months
come back in annual succession. Cultivation of the tree
seems more easy than that of its humble companion. The
peculiar dryness of the soil and the nature of the shade per-
haps could not be very well imitated in the garden, to a de-
gree favorable to cultivating it. I know of no attempts to
introduce it as a garden flower ; but surely it deserves a place
among the gems of the florist's care. Artificial belts and
coppices of the white pine ought to be adorned with the win-
tergreen, or pipsissiwa, as the Indians call it; more classi-
cally known in botany as Chimaphila umbellata, a beautiful
allusion to its hardy habits, denoting, in its etymon, a love?-
of winter. Its astringent and spicy-bitter leaves are also
reputed as a popular medicine; yet more value, I suspect, is
to be found in the beauty of its flowers than in any pharma-
ceutical point of view. To the eye of the observer of native
elegance, the chimaphila of the pine woods will always pre-
sent a subject for his attention, at whatever season of the year
he may chance to see its hardy and verdant foliage.

We take leave of the dark-foliaged wintergreen, to look
after its more rarely found sister and co-species, the Chima-
phila maculata. Darlington tells us, in his Flora Cestrica,
that this species is called erroneously, by Pursh, the Pipsissi-
wa, the same as we have seen belonging in truth to the 0.
umbellata. The present species has a general resemblance,
but is much more unique. It seldom grows so large, and is
never so plentiful ; at least, I never have seen any instances
of its occurrence where more than a dozen or two plants could
be found at a time. I recollect many years ago seeing the
plant for the first time at the Botanic Garden in Cambridge,
where it was carefully preserved by Mr. Carter, the skilful

Notes on some of our Native Plants. 25

gardener of that place. That plant was gathered at Newton
Falls, and I believe survived several seasons, under cultiva-
tion. The next time I saw the Chimaphila maculata, it was
growing in a native locality on the banks of the Hudson
River, at Fishkill Landing. It disappeared from that spot
shortly after, where I have since sought for it in vain. Then,
in the rich beech woods of Pennsylvania, among the dry, old,
brown leaves which covered the ground, some years after-
wards, I detected a patch of it, forming a conspicuous object.
In the month of October, 1S45, I found another similar group
of plants of this species, growing in the chestnut woods which
are so common at Northborough, m this State. Visiting this
locality during the past spring, I brought home with me a
little clump of the roots, to attempt its cultivation. Acci-
dentally, as it were, a single specimen came in my way, while
walking with a friend in the close vicinity of my residence,
growing near the footpath which led through a thick piece of
brushwood. This was in flower, and was the first specimen
in that condition that I ever found. The spot was carefully
marked, and I trust to see its root increasing from year to
year, or to ascertain whether it disappears normally from any
habitat, as do some other kinds of plants, found occasionally
only, and at rare intervals.

The roots of the Spotted wintergreen, (Chimaphila macu-
lata,) are long and creeping, extending just beneath the sur-
face of the earth, and, when found in old woods, insinuating
their fibres among the decayed vegetable remains which lie
on the ground. The stems are tough, woody, inclining or
tending partially to an upright position, of a dark red color,
bearing two or three partial verticils of leaves, which, in the
specimen before me, are in threes, with acutely and sharply
serrate edges, each leaf tapering to an acute point, and fur-
nished at base with a short petiole, into which the leaf gradr
ually changes. Beneath these regular whorls may be seen,
on some of the stems, a pair of ovate and smaller leaves.
The lower surface of the leaves is of a dull purplish hue,
while the upper surface is smooth, dark green, marked,
throughout its entire length, with a broad white line, from
which shorter and narrower ones acutely diverge, somewhat
in the form and figure of a venation. A few little bracts may

VOL. XIV. NO. I. 3

26 Notes on some of our Native Plants.

be also distinguished on the stem, especially when young.
Some irregularly shaped, brown spots are to be seen, also, on
the upper surface of the foliage, from which, perhaps, its spe-
cific name is derived. From the upper Avhorl of leaves rises
a common footstalk, supporting two or three flowers, having
white petals, of a broadly obovate, concave form, and, while
not so beautiful as those of the true pipsisskva, are superior
in the fact of possessing a delicate odor, of a peculiar charac-
ter. Sometimes it happens that only one of the flower buds
expands into blossom : the present species has always, how-
ever, the merit of its singularly striped foliage, which causes
it to be regarded as an object of curiosity.

The little clump of roots which I brought from Northbor-
ough, I potted in a mixture of vegetable mould, chopped sphag-
num, and decayed leaves ; and, shading it from the sun under
some bushes in the garden, with frequent waterings, it pro-
duced me a flower stalk having a single blossom ; being the
only bud of sufficient strength to come to maturity. It after-
wards made a fine new growth, and is at this moment on my
table, looking as if it was as well established in its new home
as it ever was in its native locality. For three weeks, this
single blossom continued fresh in my room, shaded from the
sun. No seed-vessel, however, was produced, probably ow-
ing to deficiency of opportunity for impregnation. I consider
it a pretty pot plant, certainly of as much merit as Cyclamen
hedersefolium, which is cultivated with so much care. The
species may, perhaps, be classed as among the "plantse ra-
riores;" or, as florists would say in plain English, it is a
"rare plant." As such, I shall preserve it, — more, however,
for its own beauty; more, still, as a memento of pleasant
hours amid its sylvan home.

This species, according to Menzies, is indigenous to the
Northwest Coast of North America, as Nuttall tells us in his
Genera of North American Plants. Several other species are
also enumerated in the Flora of the United States, by some
botanists ; but these belong to another section, and go under
the name of Pyrola, of which we have, in the vicinity of
Boston, several, which claim attention for their own intrinsic
and peculiar merits.

South Hingham, Dec, 1847.

Cultivation of the Dahlia in Private Gardens. 27

Art. VI. On the Cultivation of the Dahlia in Private Gai'-
dens. By James Kennedy, Gardener to S. T. Jones, Esq.,
The Cedars, Staten Island.

The universal estimation in which this delightful flower is
held, by the lovers of the floral world, induces me to oflfer, for
insertion in your Magazine, the following remarks on what I,
with every submission to superior judgment, conceive to be a
method meriting adoption. An impression is entertained by
many, that the dahlia is a native of a very hot country ; but
such is decidedly erroneous, for Mexico, in North America,
from whence it was imported, although situated between the
tropics, possesses the properties of a temperate climate, highly
fertile, and yielding some of the rarest productions of nature.
It follows, then, that the United States is somewhat more
assimilated to the native clime of the dahlia than is gen-
erally imagined; and, from the growing ardor and skill
displayed in its cultivation, it has an undoubted right to claim
the palm of excellence in the culture of this autumnal emperor
of the floral world.

GENERAL REMARKS.

Those who propagate for sale generally excite their plants
to growth, the last week in February or first in March, by
which means their stock is ready for market by the first of
May ; but as this season is admittedly too early to risk the
planting of valuable dahlias, it is, therefore, unnecessary for
those who cultivate for their own amusement, or to supply
the garden of their employer, to excite their roots so early as
above mentioned, because the earlier the roots are put into
excitement, the greater the amount of attention and skill re-
quired to guard against the eflTects of inclement weather. I
therefore advise the young dahlia fancier not to form his hot-
bed before the first of April, and then to make it of hot stable
manure, somewhat larger each way than the size of the frame
intended to cover it. After the bed is made, allow it to remain
about a week to ferment, that the rank, strong heat may
subside.

PROPAGATION BY CUTTINGS.

The bed being prepared and the frame placed on it, let it
be covered, to the depth of three inches, with fine, sifted,

2S Cultivation of the Dahlia in Private Gardens.

sandy soil : the roots should then be put in, and the tubers
covered with similar materials, being careful that the crown of
the root remains uncovered. The lights may then be put on ;
but, should great heat arise in the bed, let them be tilted a
little at back to allow any rank steam to escape freely. This
may be allowed day and night, if found really necessary ; but
cautiously protecting the roots, by covering, every night, with
matting, sufficiently secured to prevent any danger of their
being carried off by high winds; of course, the ventilation
of the frame must be proportionate to the degree of heat and
steam emitted by the bed. This precaution is particularly
necessary when the roots begin to push shoots, for, if not
attended to at this time, they will sustain much injury, if not
be wholly destroyed.

The bed may be now occasionally, but moderately, watered,
the water being in a tepid state, avoiding, as much as possi-
ble, wetting the growing shoots. Admit air regularly in the
day, by partly or wholly removing the lights, but ever careful
in replacing them with the mat-covering before the evening
turns cold, for one frost would annihilate every shoot, and
thereby render a nullity all the attentions previously bestowed.
As soon as the shoots are about three inches in length, they
may be detached by means of a sharp knife, cutting the shoot
immediately under the joints next the crown of the root : in
doing this, caution is necessary not to injure any minute buds
which may be connected with the base of the cutting. Insert
these cuttings singly into thumb-pots, filled with rich, mel-
low, sandy soil, and plunge the pots up to the rim in a pretty
lively heat, where, if kept shaded from the sun and covered
at night, they will readily strike root ; and, if the bed be much
reduced in strength, apply linings or outer coatings of hot
manure to the frame, as observation may suggest, or necessity
require. When thoroughly established, they may be gradu-
ally removed to a cold frame, placing the pots on a layer of
lime siftings, to prevent the access of worms ; from whence
they may be removed to the open air as prudence may dic-
tate. Should they become pot-bound, that is, the pots filled
with matted roots, let them be shifted into pots a size larger.

Cultivation of the Dahlia in Private Gardens. 29

PROPAGATION BY DIVIDING THE ROOTS.

Instead, however, of cutting off the shoots as described
above, if the propagator requires only a limited supply of
plants, or not possessing sufficient confidence to perform the
work, he may allow them to remain until the shoots are
somewhat more advanced in growth, when he can remove the
root from the bed, and, with a sharp knife, divide it into as
many pieces as the shoots will admit of; but, before perform-
ing this, it will be necessary to examine the lower part of the
roots, because it sometimes happens that shoots start from the
under side, and grow upwards between the tubers, in which
case, while we are endeavoring to preserve one shoot, we de-
stroy another : however, the best way to guard against this,
is to cut no more with the shoot than appears to be connected
with it. The shoots thus divided should be potted off sepa-
rately, in pots proportioned to their size, using rich mellow
soil, rather sandy than otherwise, for the purpose, when the
pots may be plunged half-way up in a gentle hotbed. The
more gentle and moderate the heat of the bed for this system
of propagation, the better ; and an additional supply of air,
during the day, will be required for plants thus treated, they
being stronger and growing much quicker than mere cut-
tings, which have to generate entire roots. As soon as the
plants thus treated appear to be established, and begin to
grow, they should be removed from the hotbed and placed
in a cool frame, exposing them to the air during the day
by wholly removing the lights, but replacing them again
in the evening.

There are doubtless many whose occupations would restrict
their attentions to a hotbed, and, for that reason, will not
provide one ; in which case, the roots may be placed in a
warm south border, in the beginning of May, and covered
about two inches with fine sandy soil, where, if kept mode-
rately moist, and covered at night with hand-glasses, or mats
thrown over hoops, many will succeed ; and when the shoots
appear over ground, and are about four or five inches in
length, the roots may be taken up, divided and potted as
above, and, when well established, planted in their places of
destination. I can give one satisfactory assurance that plants,
raised from divisions of the root, will make vigorous and pro-

30 Cultivatio7i of the Dahlia in Private Gardens.

lific blooming plants, and are the more certain to calculate on
as capable of propagating from the following spring, which is
not always the case with those raised from cuttings, as first
described, notwithstanding the root may be perfectly sound,
for every generative particle connected with the shoot is un-
questionably preserved. 1 need not remark further on these
occasional failures, than that they are generally understood to be
occasioned by detaching the young shoots unskilfully, with-
out the incipient or minor eyes or buds connected with the
base of it. 1, this season, propagated my whole stock by this
mode, (root divisions,) and they produced fine, luxuriant
plants and flowers, which gained me many marks of distinc-
tion from those who came to view Mr. Jones's place.

PLANTING OUT THE ROOTS.

I may here mention, that, on the planting and subsequent
treatment, depends much of the success and beauty of the
forthcoming bloom. The first week in June I prefer to any
other for planting out, as, from this time to the middle of
September, the thermometer ranges pretty regular ; but, before
the first of June, I have some doubt as to the safety of my
plants.

PREPARATION OF THE SOIL.

The soil, intended for the reception of the plants, should
be laid up in ridges during the winter and spring, consisting
of good sandy loam, which, at the time of digging up, should
be liberally supplied with old hotbed manure, also well ex-
posed to the previous winter; but, should the loam partake,
or incline, to a heavy, saponaceous quality, a liberal quantity
of river sand should be intermixed with it. But while I ad-
vocate the use of well-neutralized manure, I, at the same
time, wish to be understood, that this material is not to be
used indiscriminately, but in proportion to the quality or na-
ture of the soil with which it is to be mixed, otherwise it will
be found to produce a repletion of growth, by no means de-
sirable.

SOIL AND TREATMENT OF FANCY DAHLLAS.

The variegated varieties should be grown in sandy loam or
peat, nearly or wholly destitute of manure, or they will be

The Means Grass and its Cnltivation. 31

liable to run too much, and exhibit self-colored flowers ; and,
in the event of such appearing, they should be taken off the
plant as soon as they open.

I would also notice that the plants, on being turned out of
the pots, should not be planted too near the surface. No ap-
prehension need be entertained that the lower portion of the
stem of the plant then surrounded by the soil will rot, for
vegetation advances rapidly with the dahlia, and the lower
portion of the stem gradually attains a strong woody sub-
stance.

TAKING UP THE ROOTS.

Let the roots be taken up in November, or as soon as the
frost has cut the tops; but dry weather must be chosen, if
possible : exposing them to the open air by day, but carefully
protecting them from frost at night: when thoroughly dry
and free from soil, let them be packed in barrels with sand,
or covered with dry soil, sufficient to keep frost from injuring
them. This is not written for the benefit of the practical
gardener ; but to the amateur, or young grower, these remarks
may be of service.

Staten Island, Nov. 29, 1847.

Art. VII. The Means Grass, and Us Cultivation.
By John Lewis Russell, Prof. Bot. &c. to Mass. Hort. Soc.

On the 268th page of the 12tli volume of this Magazine,
(or Vol. II. New Series,) will be found a notice of this plant,
from a southern correspondent, who, dating from Athens,
Ga., May, 1846, says, "I send you a package of seed of what
is here known as the 'Means grass,' and is celebrated for its
extraordinary productiveness and nutritive qualities, when
used for ^soiling,'' especially milch cows. * * * * It grows
four or five feet high, as strong as the Gama grass, and may
be cut in Carolina four or five times a year," &c. &c.

Being presented with some of the seed from the package
referred to, through the courtesy of Mr. C. M. Hovey, I sowed
it in September following, and secured two plants from the
frost, by preserving them over winter in my study, where,
exposed to a sunny window, they made a slow but constant

32 The Mea?is Grass and its Cultivation.

growth. In the early part of last June, they were turned out
into a piece of rather moist, rich land, bordering on a peat
meadow, in which situation, after several weeks of stagnation
of increase in size, they suddenly took a favorable start,
throwing up strong stalks and a moderate supply of leaves,
and coming into blossom some time in September. Some of
the flower stems are lying before me, and present, as did
indeed the entire culms or stalks of the plant, a coarse, hard,
and reedy texture, quite unlike any of the grasses which are
considered valuable for hay. The heads of flowers were
very conspicuous, and attracted universal attention, consisting
of verticillate spikes, forming nodding heads {panicles) of a
rich, shining, yellow hue, which color, as well as a certain
satiny lustre, is lost as the seed matures, when the husks
have more or less of a dull, purplish tint. The first panicle
produced was almost entirely destitute of awns to the florets,
and misled me for a while as to its genus, which circum-
stance, I afterward discovered, was owing to the fact that
nearly all the florets were barren or abortive. As more pani-
cles were developed, the awns or beards were abundant, and
added much to the beauty of the flowers. Other and lateral
panicles were also produced, giving the upper part of the culm
a branching appearance.

The two plants, when turned out of the pot, were about a
foot high, and had two or three stalks each. At the end of
the season, when the frost killed them, they measured, from
the ground to the topmost spikes, nearly seven feet, and had
thrown up more than thirty stout stems. As I was desirous
to secure their greatest possible growth, I did not cut them at
all, so no experiments were made on the " soiling" quality of
the grass. I should judge, however, from appearances, that it
would prove of little value among such a host of better grasses.
The leaves were three-bladed, with a stout midrib, resembling
those of Barn grass, or Cock's foot panic, (Echinochloa crus-
gdlli,) a troublesome succulent weed about our houses. Each
leaf measured about eighteen inches in length from the top
of the sheath, and about an inch wide. The bottoms of the
culms are furnished with strong and tough roots, similar to
those at the lower joints of Indian corn, {Zea mays.) These
strike deep into the soil, and render it difficult to pull up the
plants. Several strong stolones, or creeping, underground

The Means Grass and its Cultivation. 33

stems, shot out from the main roots to the distance of two feet
or more, and were just protruding from the surface as the
autumn frosts set in. One of these '•'■ rattoons'^ I have se-
cured, for another year's trial. Some seed sown in May, in
a dry and rocky soil, grew only about three feet high, and
the plants were of a depauperated character, although flower
stalks were produced. The first named soil seemed best
fitted for its culture.

The Means grass must be regarded as a coarse kind of
fodder at best, and of perhaps the same value as the Broom
corn, which is a co-species. Unlike that, however, it does
not possess half the succulency, nor indeed circumference, of
stalk. Its panicles, too, cannot be put to the same economical
purposes, however beautiful as ,a garden ornament. The
coming winter will doubtless test its merits for hardiness, as I
have left the roots wholly exposed. It seems hardly neces-
sary to introduce tropical or southern grasses, which are
naturally coarse or else wiry, as a substitute for the abundant
and softer kinds which thrive in a more temperate clime.
The same fate would probably await this, as met the famed
Gama grass, lauded in the North Carolina Whig, as we learn
in the first volume of this Magazine, for the year 1835, page
312, where, by the quotation, we learn, that "James B.
Marsh, Esq. has lately brought into cultivation this valuable
grass," and "he says his horses, cattle, and sheep prefer it to
the best of blade fodder ; and, having tried red-top, timothy,
and clover, he is certain that one acre of Gama will produce
more forage than ten of those grasses." After such a recom-
mendation, it were presumable that agriculture would be on
the very tiptoe of expectation and impatience for its introduc-
tion elsewhere ; when, lo ! our golden visions were suddenly
put to flight by the following morceau in the same volume of
the Magazine, page 436, from the pen of that sagacious agri-
culturist, the late Hon. John Lowell, who pronounces it
"worthless." "I send you," he says, "specimens of the
Gama grass. I have it in all soils. With us, it is worthless
as so much florin, which made tivo hours'' noise in the world
and then expired."

Dr. Darlington, in his Flora. Cestrica, page 95, tells us, un-
der the head of Tripsacum dactyloides, that a "few years
ago this grass was much extolled, by some writers in the

34 The Japan Lilies ;

West, as an article of fodder for stock. The leaves and young
plant may probably answer very well, where better cannot be
had ; but any one who will examine the coarse culms of the
mature plant may soon satisfy himself that it can never su-
persede the good hay of this region, nor be as valuable in any
respects as the common Indian corn fodder," — a remark
which, with all deference to higher authority and trials on
the Means grass, 1 am at present inclined to apply to the
Sorghum halepense, as the grass is scientifically called.

The beauty of its panicles or flower heads induces me to
recommend it to the favorable notice of those who are fond of
horticultural pursuits, whether they tend to the cultivation of
a gorgeous plant, or to a tuft of grass. As it has never oc-
curred in my experience in gardens before, I presume it will
prove a novelty with us in the vicinity of Boston ; and Dr.
Ward is to be thanked for sending to the North so splendid
a foreign production, which, though a native of Syria, has
been long known as a garden ornament in Great Britain.

South Hing-ham, Dec, 2d, 1847.

Art. VIII. The Japan Lilies ; their History, Cultivation,
Propagation, &fc. By the Editor.

We have so often, during the last eight years, since their
first introduction into our gardens, spoken of the beauty of
the Japan lilies, that it is quite unnecessary that we should
enter into a longeulogium of them at this time. The lily, in
some of its varieties, has been the theme of the poet, the sub-
ject of the painter, and the admired object of every lover of
plants from the earliest ages to the present time. The White
lily, {L. candidum,) with its snowy petals and sweet odor, —
the Tiger lily, {L. tigrinum,) with its leopard-like spotting, —
the Martagon lily, (L. martagon,) in its numerous varieties, —
and our own Superb lily, {L. superbum,) are each and all of
them among the showiest ornaments of our gardens : many
other species possess great beauty ; among which may be named
the canadense, philadelphicum, japonicum, eximium, chal-
cedonicum, &c. ; but the lilies, par excellence, are those which
form the subject of our article,— the Japan lilies of M. Siebold.

their Cultivation, Propagation, 6^c. 35

We had intended to have given this article in our last vol-
ume, but, as we were desirous to accompany it with an en-
graving of one of the plants, we were compelled to postpone
it till the present time, — our sketch made in the summer of
1846 having been lost. The season is now at hand when the
bulbs should receive attention, and we therefore embrace an
early opportunity for its appearance, that those who have the
plants may know how to manage them so as to produce the
best results.

History.

According to Ksempfer, the Japanese obtain these lilies from
Corea ; M. Thunberg also confirms this opinion, and M. Sie-
bold asserts that he did not find them anywhere except under
garden cultivation. For the introduction of the several vari-
eties into Europe, we are indebted to that indefatigable trav-
eller, Dr. Siebold, who brought them to Holland on his return
from Japan, in 1830. They first flowered in the Botanic
Garden of Ghent, in 1832, and, in 1836 or 1837, in the nurse-
ries around London, at which time we gave a brief account
of them in our Magazine, (IV. p. 63.) They were first intro-
duced into the vicinity of Boston in 1839 or '40, and flowered
for the first time in 1841. The rubrumis still very rare ; but
the white and rose-colored varieties are now to be found in
many fine collections of plants.

Dr. Siebold brought with him several other species of lil-
ies, some of which have subsequently flowered, but none have
proved so splendid as these. A few of the former are the tes-
taceum, Thunbergiawwm, Brownii, &c. &c.

Descriptions of Varieties.

1. LfLiuM sPECio^suM. var. ru^brum. — The Crimson Japan Lily.
Synonymes. L. speciosum TAwnJ. ; Zi. versicolor iiiCBWj^/er,- i. sup^rb-
um Thunb. PL Japan ; L. Broussartw Morr. ; L. lancifolium Hort.

For a long time botanists, as well as cultivators, have been
divided in opinion as regards the specific name of the Japan
lily. Thunberg called it speciosum ; but, after its introduc-
tion to Europe, it received the name of lancifolium, and this
has become so generally adopted, especially with regard to

The Japan Lilies ;

the Avhite and rose-colored varieties, that it is difficult to
change it. We have, in most instances, called them the

lancifolium ourselves,
as we found this the
case in nearly every
nursery which we vis-
ited near London, in
the fall of 1844 ; but, in
order to give now the
correct and established
names under which
they shall hereafter be
known, we have care-
fully looked up the va-
rious authorities, and,
just as we commenced
this article, the Octo-
ber number of Van
Houtte's Flore des Ser-
ves came to hand, in
which the whole mat-
ter is fully elucidated ;
and we follow the in-
telligent botanist, M.
Chas. Lemaire, who
penned the descriptive
article accompanying a
beautiful colored plate
of the L. speciosum,
var. rubrum, the most
exquisite of the four
varieties.

Flowers very large,
drooping, with the seg-
ments undulated and
reflexed ; of a clear, rich

riff. 4. Ldlium spedosum var. rubrum. rOSC-COlor, COVCrcd with

numerous deep crimson points and projections, which sparkle
with a chrystal brilliancy. The stem is upright and branched.

their Cultivatioii, Propagatloti, 6^c. 37

attaining the height of five or six feet ; each branch support-
ing two or more flowers ; leaves, oval lanceolate, acuminate,
5-nerved. The annexed engraving {fig. 4,) represents a speci-
men of the L. speciosum, var. riibrum, which has flowered in
our collection the last three years, and which is probably one of
the largest in the country. We selected it from among sev-
eral large bulbs in the collection of Mr. Groom, near London,
whose stock of the Japan lilies is the most extensive in Eng-
land. It is a little different in habit from either the album
or punctatum ; being more dwarf, shorter jointed, with smaller
foliage, and later in blooming than those varieties.

"Nature," says M. Lemaire, "seems to have been extreme-
ly prodigal in her gifts to the Japan lilies ; for she has be-
stowed upon them a beautiful habit, superb foliage, ample
flowers,' of the richest color, and the sweetest odor." Indeed,
nothing can be more truly exquisite than the rubrum ; and we
scarcely need repeat, — what we have before stated, — that we
consider them the greatest acquisitions which have been made
since the introduction of the camellia,

2. Li'lium specio^sum var. a'lbum. The White Japan Lily.
Syn. L. lancifolium album, L. eximium Hort., L. specoisum albiflorum
Hook. L. BroussartM Morr.

Flowers pure snowy white, covered with white points and
projections in the same manner as the L. var. rubrum. It
attains a greater height than the former, the branches are
more extended, and the foliage longer. The bulbs also in-
crease much more readily than the rubrum. It is the most
robust of the several varieties, strong plants in our collection
having produced upwards oi forty flowers.

3. Li'lium specio'sum var. puncta^tum. The Rose-colored

Japan Lily.

Syn. I/ilium lancifolium punctatum Hort. L. lancifolium var. r6seum
Paxt. Mag. of Bat.

Flowers pale blush, covered with delicate roseate points
and projections in the same style as the rubrum ; habit sim-
ilar to the L. var. album, growing to the height of seven feet,
but not quite so spreading in its branches. It is nearly two
weeks earlier in blooming than the rubrum.

VOL. XIV. NO. L 4

38 The Japan Lilies ;

4. Li'lium specio''sum var. ro^seum maemora^tum. The Spotted
Rose-colored Japan Lily.
Flowers white, and covered with very distinct ruby
spots and points : habit the same as the rubrum : growing to
the height of five feet. It is much more distinctly spotted
than either of the above varieties. It is entirely distinct from
punctatum. This variety is yet very rare, and in but few
collections of plants.

Cultivation.

The Japan lilies are of easy cultivation, and, though they
have been found to be nearly or quite hardy, yet their adapta-
tion to pot culture will always make them the especial favor-
ites of the conservatory and greenhouse, where, during
the months of July and August, — as we have before remarked,
(XIII. p. 264,) — they will form the most brilliant ornaments.
In order, however, that our directions may be more explicit,
and readily understood by every amateur, we have placed
them under the various heads of Soil, — Repotting, — and Gen-
eral Treatment.

Soil. — The best soil for these lilies is a mixture of peat,
loam, and leaf mould, in about the following proportions : —
one third peat, one third leaf mould, or very old and perfectly
decayed manure, and one third fibrous hazel loam. If the
loam is very stiff", a small quantity of sand may be added, to
give freeness to the compost. We have tried them in a soil
richer than this, and with more loam, but we have not been
so successful in their cultivation.

Repotting. — Supposing the bulbs to have been placed un-
der the stage, or in the cellar, they will begin to grow by the
first of February, particularly the punctatum : as soon, how-
ever, as the shoots are seen pushing through the soil, prep-
aration should be made to repot them. In the first place,
have in readiness a good quantity of the proper sized pots,
with plenty of good potsherds, of various sizes, for drainage :
having selected the pots, place in the drainage, and over this,
(which should quite cover the bottom,) throw on some of the
coarsest of the compost ; then fill in with the soil to the de-
sired height. The bulbs should then be carefully turned out

their Cultivation^ Propagatioti, c^'c. 39

of their old pots, and all the loose earth shaken off, being par-
ticular, however, not to injure the long fleshy roots which are
always coiled round the pot : some of the smallest and least
fleshy may be cut away, but the less that is done to them the
better, if they are in good condition. All the ofl"sets should
also be removed. Now supposing the plant to have been in
a 12-inch pot, it may be planted in an S-inch, which will an-
swer for some time. At this potting, the top of the bulb
should be about half an inch below the soil. Place the soil
in tolerably firm, with the potting stick, and finish with a
very gentle watering, just sufficient to settle the surface. They
may be then removed to a cool, half-shady place, where they
should remain until the bulbs have made shoots two or three
inches long. A thin layer of moss over the drainage will
allow of a freer passage of superfluous moisture.

General Treatment. — Water should be very sparingly
given until the shoots have grown to the length of a foot,
when the plants may have a liberal supply. By this time,
also, they should be removed to an airy and light part of the
house, which will prevent them from drawing up weakly.
No other care will be required, but to give them water, until
the first of April, when they Avill need shifting into the pots
in which they are to flower. For good strong bulbs, these
should be twelve inches in diameter. At this potting, the same
soil should be used as before, but the bulbs should be placed deep-
er in the pots : if they have done well, numerous roots will be
seen issuing from the base of the stem on the surface of the
sofl : these are the roots which support the flowering stems,
and, at this potting, the bulb should be sunk deep enough to
cover these roots about two inches. They may then remain
until they throw up their flower stems, when they should be
neatly staked up, being careful not to injure the bulbs. Re-
peated syringings should be given to the plants until the flow-
ers are nearly ready to expand, as this greatly invigorates
them.

About the middle of June, the flowers will begin to open, —
those of punctatum first, — and from that time until the end
of August, they will be constantly in bloom : during this pe-
riod, they should be liberally supplied with water, and have
a good airy situation: if partially shaded in the middle of the

40 The Japan Lilies ;

day, they will keep in flower much longer. After the f owors
have all fallen, the seed-vessels should be pinched off, unless
it is intended to ripen the seeds, as any great number of them
generally weaken the bulbs, by diverting the energies of tl e
plants to their growth instead of strengthening the root. For
a week or two, the plants may be watered as usual, after
which they should receive it more sparingly, and, in the
course of a month, it should be withheld altogether. The
pots may then be removed to the open air, and placed in a
shady situation, where they may remain until October : the
old stems should then be cut off close to the ground, and the
pots placed under the stage or in the cellar, till the usual sea-
son of repotting arrives.

Propagation.

The Japan lilies, like other species and varieties, are read-
ily increased by offsets from the old bulbs. It is the most
common, as well as the safest, mode of propagation. Other
plans have been resorted to by nurserymen, desirous of rap-
idly increasing their stock ; but the amateur will find them
hazardous, and, in experimenting, will be in danger of losing
his best bulbs. We shall, however, detail the principal modes,
which are, propagation by Ofl^sets — by Scales — and by Seeds.

Offsets. — ^These are obtained at the general potting : when
the earth is shaken from the roots, several of these may often
be taken from the base ; other offsets or young bulbs also ap-
pear at the bottom of the old stem, above the bulbs, and if the
stems are slightly earthed up, a month or two before the blos-
soms appear, these young bulbs will be much larger. They
should be separated very carefully, preserving all the young
roots, and should be potted in the same compost recommended
for the old roots, with the addition of a little more peat and
sand. Plant one of the strong bulbs in a three-inch pot, and
three or four of the smaller ones, round the edge, in the same
size. The second year, these should be repotted according to
their strength, and treated in the same way as the old bulbs.
They will generally show one or two blooms the third year,
but they will not attain their full size, until the sixth or
seventh.

their Cultivation, Pi'opagatioii, (^c. 41

Scales. — These are taken from the outside of an old bulb,
and potted in sand, and placed in a gentle heat, under a hand-
glass : very carefully treated, they generally form small
bulbs ; these, the second year, should be potted off, and after-
wards treated in the same manner we have recommended for
offsets. This mode is only practised by those who have all
the facilities of propagation ; as, under ordinary management, it
would probably end in sacrificmg the old roots.

Seeds. — There is no more rapid way of increasing the
Japan lilies than by seeds. These are easily obtained if the
flowers are properly fertilized, and frequently they mature
without its being done artificially. Any time, during winter,
the seeds may be sown, placing them in broad, shallow pans,
in a compost rather lighter than Ave have already recom-
mended, and covering them about a quarter of an inch deep.
Frequently, the seeds show no outward signs of vegetation
the first year; but, upon searching after them, it will be
found that they have made small bulbs, from which, the sec-
ond year, a good shoot will spring up. The first and second
years they may remain in the pans, giving them water rather
freely while they are growing, but withholding it when the
foliage begins to turn yellow. The third year they should be
potted off singly in thumb-pots, and afterwards receive the
same treatment as offsets. They will occasionally flower the
third year, but ordinarily not until the fourth.

New Varieties by Hybridization.

Scarcely sufiicient time has elapsed, since the introduction
of these lilies, to have produced any great number of seed-
lings. But we apprehend that, ere long, a great quantity of
new varieties will be raised by hybridization. Whether any
improvement will be effected upon the L. speciosum var. ru-
brum is somewhat doubtful, but that a race of hardy kinds
may be produced, between the garden and the Japan varie-
ties, we do not doubt. We have now several hundred seed-
lings of various ages, from one to three years old, which have
been raised from the rubrum, dlbum, and punctatum, impreg-
nated with tigrinum, chalcedonicum, and superbum : some of
of them show a very distinct foliage from their parents ; and,
4*

42 Foreign Notices.

from the cross between rubrnm and chalcedonicum, we look
for some marked varieties : if the fiery brihiancy of the latter
can be added to the former, some good results may be antici-
pated. Crossing the Japan lilies with each other cannot lead
to any thing very decided; as seedhngs raised from rubrnm,
impregnated with album, and vice versa, have either resem-
bled the intermediate form of punclatum, or nearly approached
the rubrum. Col. Wilder, of Dorchester, has raised several
of this character. We would urge upon amateurs the propri-
ety of producing seedlings by fertilization, and ultimately
some great results may be attained.

General Remarks.

It has been supposed that the Japan lilies would prove per-
fectly hardy in our climate, and thus become great acquisi-
tions to our gardens. Experiments have been tried, and they
have been found to succeed tolerably well. Their hardiness
would certainly be a valuable quality ; but, so far as we have
seen them from the open air, they have been poor representa-
tives of those under the treatment we have detailed. The
truth is, the texture of the flowers, and their exquisite tints,
are altogether too delicate to be exposed to our scorching suns,
high winds, and drenching rains : and although they may
display their flowers under the ordinary treatment of the
white and tiger lilies, yet the short duration of their beauty
will afford no satisfaction to the admiring amateur ; on the
contrary, the facility with which they are cultivated, the long
time they remain in perfection, and their adaptation as orna-
ments either of the conservatory, greenhouse, balcony, or
verandah, will ever place them first in the rank of in-door
plants.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. Foreign Notices.

TURKEY.

Gardening on the Bosphorus. — The following notes on the state of Hor-
ticulture around Constantinople were not written for publication ; but as

Foreign Notices. 43

they possess much interest, we take the liberty to copy them, knowing that
they will be read with much gratification. Messrs. Hovcy and Co. have
forwarded the writer some of the finest kinds of American pears, apples,
and peaches ; and we have no doubt but their introduction into the sultan's
garden will be the means of extending their cultivation into all the finer
gardens on the Bosphorus, — and the Baldwin and Northern Spy apple be
better known than even in the gardens of some of the highly civilized por-
tions of Europe. — Ed.

" The sultan, a most amiable and generous person, has an extensive gar-
den attached to his winter palace on the European side of the Bosphorus, as
yet but new ; and I wish to furnish it with a few of our American trees, among
which I have thought of a few sugar-maples, — such as loe make sugar from
in Ohio, — hickory (shell-bark, &c.), and our black walnut (fir), — there is
abundance of what is called the while or English walnut here (regia), — oak,
magnoha (that flowers), — I have seen the latter in Ohio, where it is much
colder .than here, — beech, tulip-tree, sassafras, catalpa, cranberry, &c. All
of these, I believe, are wholly unknown here. The poplar, elm, persimmon,
horse-chestnut, scrub-green oak, linden, and the usual fruit trees, (none of
them very good,) are abundant, and, in the woods, the arbutus is common,
and very pretty.

" I may mention, that the climate here is very mild. There are snows
during our winter, which commences in January and ends in April ; but they
last but a day or so, and soon melt away. The atmosphere during the win-
ter and spring is very damp and chilly, and fires are indispensable. We have
no good apples about here, near ; but the cherries, plums, (large as hen's
eggs, red, blue, and white,) and pears are good ; so are the peaches ; but
neither of the two last are to be compared to ours of the United States.
Of course, the grapes are excellent, — generally of a large white kind called
Tehauch grapes ; the large blue are also good, but too fleshy. Figs are al-
so good, but not so abundant as in Smyrna. Almonds grow well here, En-
glish walnuts, filberts, chestnuts, — large but not very sweet, — and large
strawberries in abundance. Medlars and persimmons grow here ; the latter
are from Trebizonde on the Black Sea, and here bear the name of Trebi-
zonde dates. Among the garden ornamental trees, I may mention the aca-
cia, of two kinds, — the one bearing small yellow flowers of a strong rich
odor, and the other producing a light-red flower, like a floss of silk, and is
called by the Turks ' Gul Ibrashim,^ or, the 'Rose-silk tassel tree.'
The Turks have much taste for flowers, and their summer-houses are much
ornamented about the steps with choice flowers in pots, and their gardens
look beautiful to the passer-by. My office of interpreter to the legation
leads me frequently to these summer retreats, and I cannot tell you how
much I admire the taste shown for natural embellishments by those whom
the world regards as scarcely half civilized.

" I was last autumn at Erzeroom, not far from the Persian frontier, where
I procured a ^qw flower-seeds, among which is the ' Morina Orientalis,'
peculiar to that place, and named, by the French traveller Tournefort, after

44 Domestic Notices.

a friend in Paris. I have sent some of the seeds to the American Oriental
Society, of your city, of which I am a member, for the Horticultural Socie-
ty. I have some fruit kernels, and other seeds, which I will send you from
Smyrna, with a few of this same Morina, and I beg you to try it. The cli-
mate of Erzeroom is cold, and the soil, where it grows, poor and stony ;
and on that side near its base, there is a beautiful crimson flower, the stalk
about two feet and a half high. It is an annual. I will try and procure
for you some cherry seeds from Cerassum, the country on the shores of the
Black Sea, from which place cherries are said to have their origin. I do
not hope to furnish you with any thing better than you already possess, but
to give you some varieties. — Yours, J. P. B, Legation of the United
States of America, Constantinople, Oct. 8, 1847."

Art. II. Domestic Notices.

The November of 1847. — This month will long be remembered for its
unusual mildness. For the most part, the weather has been delicious, so
unlike to usual November skies, that we seem, thus far, to have had scarce-
ly any of that dreadful month, when cold and dull-blue clouds and desolat-
ing winds mostly obtain. October and November seem to have changed
their relations to autumn during the present fall ; and, though I have no
means of ascertaining the mean temperature, yet, from impression, I should
give the preference to the latter in regard to genial atmosphere. From
some rude notes at hand, I perceive that Colchicum autumnale was in
full flower in the garden on the 20th September, which may be considered
the last decidedly autumn flower, if we except Sedum Sieboldn, whose
lu(h are forming from the latter part of July, and is variable in its bloom-
ing, and therefore not so good a test of autumnal inflorescence. The cool
and easterly weather had been so unfavorable to the Isabella grape, that a
fine healthy vine on the south side of the house, in an excellent situation,
had not nearly matured its fruit on the 16th October, and was decidedly in-
jured by a frost of the preceding night. The same vine produced very
finely ripened bunches when gathered on the 13th October of the preced-
ing year. As early as the sixteenth of September, frosts were perceptible
in several places, and, on the sixteenth of October, they were -so severe as
to kill dahlias black, and to produce ice. October finished itself pretty
much after the same style, and an apparent cessation to all further vege-
tation was the result. November dissipated these views, and its first week
reminded us of Indian Summer. From the 21st to 29th, the weather was
similar, and the mildness of the season, aided by refreshing rains, awakened
Flora from her sleep. While walking in the woods of Duxbury, on a
pleasant afternoon of November seventeenth, several fully expanded flowers
of Epigas'a repens occurred ; and, in sunny spots, the buds seemed ready to
burst forth into premature bloom, the delicate rosy tints of the corols dis-
tinctly visible, indeed as forward as they are usually in the middle of April.
In the gardens, on the twenty-fifth, pansies, ( Fiola tricolor,) were not un-

Massachusetts Horticidturol Society. 45

usual, while gilliflowers, Ferbena AubleU'a, the red trumpet honeysuckle,
(Caprifolium sempervirens,) exhibited some scattering blossoms. Phlox
setacea, var. nivalis, was full of buds in a state of forwardness ; while chick-
weed and Poa annua were in perfect flower in the neglected borders and paths.
On the same day, I found also Malva rotundifolia full of flowers, Erysimum
vulgare, j^epidium virginicum, the common clover, TVifolium pratense,
with several heads of perfect blossoms. Some lingering blossoms were to
be seen on cabbages set out for seed from the tops of side sprouts : on the
twenty-sixth, the dandelion (Leontodon Taraxacum,) and a full-grown
flower of whiteweed, (Leucanthemum vulgare,) and, on November twenty-
seventh, Apargia autumnalis, and Trifolium repens, or white clover. The
twenty-ninth and thirtieth were very cold, and winter seemed to have set in,
in earnest ; but, on the second of December, the weather moderated, and, on
this day, the rain from an easterly point of the compass has succeeded a
drenching storm from the south-west of last night, and reminds us of those
early autumnal rainy days, which are not unusual at that season of the
year. ' A slight sprinkling of snow fell on Sunday evening, November 29th,
the only indication that winter has really come. — J. L. R., South Hing-
ham, December 3d, 1847.

Art. III. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

When our last number went to press, want of room compelled us to omit
the reports of the doings of the several meetings held in November. We
now give them in order.

November 13th. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day —
the President in the chair.

The following persons were elected members : — Edward N. Perkins,
Brookline ; G. R. Minot, S. M. Weld, Roxbury ; Dr. Daniel Chaplin,
Cambridgeport ; Alexander Pope, and Benjamin Hemmenway, Dorches-
ter ; James Hill, Somerville ; N. Hooper, Horace Gray, and Edward King,
Boston.

Adjourned for three weeks to December 4th.

December ith. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day —
the President in the chair.

No business of importance came before the meeting, and it was adjourned
for three weeks to December 25th.

[An error occurred in the list of oflicers for 1848. The name of C. M.
Hovey was omitted as Chairman of the Library Committee.]

December llth. — Exhibited. — Fruit: From J. F. Allen, Winter Nelis,
Passe Colmar, Chaumontel, (fine,) Easter Beurr6, (fine,) and Lewis pears,
White Frontignan and Black Hamburgh grapes. From M. P. Wilder,
Beurr6 d'Aremberg, and Glout Morceau pears, both of which sustain their
high character. From Jabez Wetherbee, apples, for a name. From H. Van-
dine, New Long Rose Water, and Passe Colmar pears. From Josiah Lov-
ett, Glout Morceau, Le Cur6, and Winter Nelis pears, (fine,) also Minis-

46 Answers to Correspondents.

ter apples. From George C. Jenks, apples for a name, (fine.) From E.
S. Rand, apples for a name. From Robert T. Paine, Spitzenburg apples.
December 18/A. — Exhibited. — Fruit : From Otis Johnson, of Lynn, very
fine specimens (flavor delicious) of the Easter Beurre pear. From George
Johnson, of Lynn, specimens of the Lewis pear. These specimens were
excellent, and sustain the quality of this fine native pear. From E. New-
bury, Coggswell Pearmain apples, which lack flavor. From John Owen,
apple for a name, handsome, but second rate : also baking pears. From
S. W. Cole, apples from western New York.

Art. IV. Answers to Correspondents.

Destruction OF THE Red Spider and Mealy-bug. — Rusiicus. — If you
can inform me how to get rid of two pests of the greenhouse, you will be
entitled to my everlasting gratitude. These are the red spider, and the
tohite mealy-bug. They almost make me weary of my life ; but, so far from
being weary of theirs, they cling to it with a tenacity which tobacco, sul-
phur, and hot water, all fail to overcome. I kill my plants with these rem-
edies, but the bugs live on.

I would like to ask also whether all greenhouse plants should be cut
down after flowering: and, if not, what classes of them require it. By
answering these questions, you will oblige.

It would require more space than we have room to spare to answer the
last question which Rusticus has proposed. In regard to the Red Spider,
no insect is more easily destroyed, in the greenhouse or hothouse, than this :
fumigating with sulphur will as effectually rid the plants of these pests, as
fumigating with tobacco will the Green Fly. Care should be taken, how-
ever, that the sulphur does not burn, as the leaves of the plants would then
be likely to suffer. If it is carefully strewed on the flue, not too near the
furnace, for three nights in succession, so that the atmosphere may be some-
what disagreeable, every spider will be destroyed. This may be known by
examining the leaves, when, if the insects are dead, they will be quite
black.

The Mealy-bug is very difficult to extirpate ; indeed, we do not know a
complete remedy : one of our practical gardeners has assured us, that if the
house is heated to the temperature of 130 degrees, and then syringed freely,
to create a moist atmosphere, all the bugs will be destroyed. We have
not tried this plan, but intend to do so. Our mode now is, to wash the
plants, very carefully, using a small brush, with whale oil soap, and water,
at the temperature of 150 degrees. We have found that this answers very
well, and prevents their increase.

All greenhouse plants do not require to be cut down after flowering : as
a general rule, however, all the soft-wooded plants, such as pelargoniums,
euphorbias, mahernias, verbenas, petunias, heliotropes, salvias, Erylhrina,
&c., should be headed in after they have done blooming : but heaths, cor-
raeas, azaleas, rhododendrons, acacias, camellias, and similar hard-wooded

Horticultural Memoranda. 47

plants, only require to have their branches thinned out, or headed in a little to
bring them to a frood shape. Others which are also of a ligneous habit,
require severe heading in, tliough not so much as the soft-wooded ones ;
of this class, are roses, fuchsias, abutilons, &c. Long experience only
will enable the cultivator to ascertain what peculiar treatment some kinds of
plants require.

HORTICULTURAL MEMORANDA

FOR JANUARY.

FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines, at this season of the year, will require little or no atten-
tion if the pruning has already been done. If, however, in consequence of
an accumulation of work, lime has not yet been found to complete this work,
it should be taken hold of at once, in order that the wounds may get well
healed over before the vines break in March. The pruning finished, all the
old loose bark should be peeled off carefully, so as not to injure the buds,
and the whole may then have a thin coat of the composition which we have
frequently recommended, viz., sulphur, oil soap, and a small quantity of
clay. This will destroy all insects which may be lurking in the crevices of
the bark. The whole of the shoots should then be laid carefully along the
front of the house, and made fast, where they are to remain until they be-
gin to break their eyes. Grape vines in pots may now be brought into the
greenhouse, and placed in a good situation, where they will gradually come
forward, and produce an early crop.

Fig Trees may be brought into the greenhouse this month.

Peach Trees in pots may be also brought into the greenhouse the latter
part of the month.

Scions of fruit trees may be cut now, and placed in a proper situation for
use in spring.

Root-grafting may be done now, in the manner which has frequently been
recommended in our pages, and more particularly in our last volume, p. 312.

FLOWER DEPARTMENT.

Camellias will now need much attention. Many of the sorts will be in
full bloom, and to have the plants in the best condition, they should be often
looked over. Every faded bloom should be picked off, and if more than
two buds appear on the end of any branch, one should also be picked off.
If the leaves have not been washed, now will be a fine time to do it, as
there is little else at this season to occupy attention. No ambitious gar-
dener would ever let his plants go over a year without a good washing.
Staking up the plants should also be looked to, as a crooked camellia is a
sorry object. No plant is more tractable under judicious treatment. An
occasional watering with weak guano will be beneficial to the plants.

Pelargoniums will soon require more care ; all the younger plants, for a
spring stock, will need immediate repotting ; but the older ones will not
require it till the latter part of the month. Training out the shoots should

48 Horticultural Memoranda.

now be attended to, especially if very handsome plants for exhibition are
wanted. The latter part of this month, they should be shifted into larger
pots ; those in six-inch into eight-inch, and those in eight-inch into eleven-
inch. Fumigate often to destroy the green fly, and syringe occasionally to
give the plants a green and fresh appearance. Seeds may be sown now.

Japan Lilies will now need attention. Repotting should commence as
soon as the roots begin to push, which is generally about the middle of the
month. Our article on a previous page will give all the information in de-
tail for the treatment of this exquisite class of plants. Young seedlings of
last year may be potted off singly into small pots, or three may be put into
a larger one. Seeds of 1847 may be sown now.

Cactuses will now have formed many of their buds, and may be watered
a little more freely.

Achimenes should now be brought on for a succession ; a small pan will
hold a large quantity of bulbs until they have sufficiently grown to be potted
off.

Gloxinias should be now started into growth, by placing them in the
warmest part of the house.

Calceolarias will need another potting the latter part of the month.

Azaleas will soon begin to bloom, when they should have more water.

Petunias should now be repotted, and fine sorts may now be propagated
from cuttings.

Pansy seed for early blooming should be planted this month.

DaA/ias of such sorts as are wanted for blooming very early, or for in-
creasing the stock, should be planted this month.

Fuchsias should be attended to now, if fine specimens are wanted for
blooming in May or June. Shake off the old soil, and pot in fresh tree
earth.

Oxalis Hirta, and Boioiei, done blooming, may be placed away on a dry
shelf, and only occasionally watered.

Sparaxises will now be blooming, and will need more water.

Roses will soon begin to bloom ; top-dress the plants if they need it, and
tie up the branches gracefully ; give guano occasionally, and strong suck-
ers will be thrown up which will give a most abundant bloom of fine large
flowers. Fumigate often, and syringe freely in good weather.

Neapolitan or Perpetual Violets, should have a cool, half-shady place,
and be liberally watered.

Heaths will now be making a healthy growth, and will require to be
carefully and liberally watered ; occasionally giving them a good watering
overhead with a fine syringe. Top-dress all such as need it. Now is the
time to propagate from cuttings.

Greenhouse plants of all kinds should now be propagated, as this is the
most favorable season. Scarlet geraniums, salvias, heliotropes, verbenas,
and all such plants as are wanted for bedding out, should now be propa-
gated in quantities. Keep the houses neat and clean, and get things in
readiness for spring work.

THE MAGAZINE

HORTICULTURE.

FEBRUARY, 1848.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art I. On the Formation of Vine Borders. By the Editor.

The cultivation of the grape vine under glass is no"w attract-
ing much attention ; and many new vineries have been erect-
ed in various parts of the country the last two years. The
formation of the border, certainly one of the most important
objects connected with the successful management and future
welfare of the vines, is, therefore, considered as deserving of
every attention. Much has been Avritten upon this subject
in each volume of our Magazine, and we have endeavored
to present our readers with all the information which could
be of any value to the amateur, or practical cultivator. In
our article in our last volume, (XIII, p. 293,) upon the growth
of the grape vine in the greenhouse or conservatory, we
gave a few hints upon the preparation of vine borders, and
remarked " that ajine crop of grapes could be obtained with-
out all the quackery so often recommended in their forma-
tion, such as a bed of oyster shells, or boiled bones, dead
horses, cattle, dogs, slaughter-house manure, blood, soot, &c."

Some of our practical friends, who have had some expe-
rience in the culture of the grape, have been somewhat sur-
prised to find we were not a firm believer in the great efTicacy
of the very richest ingredients, such as dead animals, for the
formation of the border, and some have been almost disposed
to doubt whether our own success was not effected by some
such aid, contrary to our statement. To the former, we need
only remark, that we are more and more convinced, that the
employment of the carcasses of animals is of no benefit what-
ever, but rather an injury in the end ; and, to the latter, we

VOL. XIV. — NO. n. 5

50 On the FWmation of Vine Borders.

shall merely state that, whatever practice we recommend, we
invariably adopt, until experience assures us that it is found-
ed in error.

The subject of the preparation of vine borders has recently
attracted considerable attention in England, and various com-
munications have appeared, in some of the gardening period-
icals, in relation to the practice of using the carcasses of dead
animals. This discussion has taken place in consequence of
the publication of a small, but excellent little work, of only
eighty or ninety pages, upon the culture of the grape, by Mr.
Roberts, a very successful cultivator. Probably, few copies
of the volume have ever found their way here, in consequence
of the high price at which it was published. We, however,
received a copy when it first appeared, and read it with much
interest, and came to the same conclusion as Dr. Lindley,
whose article wc are about to notice, that it was one of the
most thorough, practical, and common-sense treatises which
we had ever read, and, saving its recommendation of the
''pabulum" of dead animals, to produce the "nectar of Bac-
chus," was just what every cultivator of the grape was in
need of We had intended to have prepared a Review of it,
but other matters pressed upon us, and it was, for the time,
forgotten.

The preparation of our article in our last volume brought
the subject up anew, and it was in reference to Mr. Roberts's
views that we made the remark before quoted. Subsequently
to the publication of our paper, and unknown to us at the
time we wrote, appeared Mr. Allen's pamphlet on the culture
of the grape, in which he advises the use of carcasses of dead
animals, if they can be had, to such an extent as to cover the
bottom of the border. In our Review of this work, (XIII.
p. 4U9,) we incidentally stated our objection to this practice,
believing it to be of no use, but rather injurious to the future
health of the vines.

Since that time, the discussion of this question has principally
taken place, and, to show that our views are the same as those
entertained by experienced cultivators, as well as scientific
writers, abroad, -vvc have quoted the following article from
the Gardeners' Chronicle for December last, to which we ask
especial attention : —

On the Formation of Vhie Borders. 51

" One of the best modern writers on the Vine, is Mr. Roberts
now gardener to the Duke of Cleveland, at Raby. His Trea-
tise on Vine Culture contains more really good advice, and
sensible suggestions as to the way in which this plant should
be managed in Vineries, than all the English books of routine,
which had been previously published, put together. His suc-
cess as a grape grower, while gardener to Mr. Matthew Wilson,
at Eshton Hall, near Skipton, was a brilliant example of the
general soundness of his principles. A large silver medal,
which was awarded by the Horticultural Society, to some
bunches of grapes, exhibited Sept. 7, 1841, sufficiently at-
tested the advantage of his practice ; nor were they a picked
sample, but a fair gathering from the Vineries under his care,
as we happen to know on the very best authority.

" It is therefore with noordinary reluctance that we venture
to question a part of the system which Mr. Roberts advocates.
We allude to the employment of carrion in his Vine borders.
In a letter which we published last week, he states his con-
viction that this sort of manure is of the first degree of import-
ance. After mentioning that in his new Vine borders, not one
horse carcass, nor a portion of one, is buried, he expresses his
regret, that at the time he made them, it was not in his power
to avail himself of ' that pabulum to produce the nectar of
Bacchus.' (!) 'But,' he adds, ' if I was not able to add
carrion, except in a very limited degree, at the time my bor-
ders were made, I may mention that I fell in with a goodly
lot last winter, part of which has been added as a top-dressing
this autumn, and I intend in future to apply it to that purpose.
I am so cautious, that the least particle should not be wasted,
that I hoard it up as a miser would his gold.'

" This is perfectly consistent with the directions which Mr.
Roberts has given in his Treatise.

" 'I would recommend,' he there says, 'the autumn, if the
weather be dry. to prepare to fill in your border. If it ex-
tends the length of one, two, or more houses, a month previ-
ous to filling your border, provide a quantity of carrion — cat-
tle dying by accident, disease, &c., which, I am sorry to say,
has, of late years, been too common an occurrence. If you
have collected it some time beforehand, have it cut into small
pieces and laid up in soil, till the time of using. It emits a

52 On the Formation of Vine Borders.

very 7iauseoiis effluvia ; but this must be borne, for this is the
pabukim to produce the nectar of Bacchus. When all is
ready, and the weather favorable, proceed at one end of your
border, wheeling in and mixing the materials in proportion as
they stand to each other in my previous directions, on no ac-
count breaking the materials ifi mixing, but turn them in as
rough as possible, adding one good-sized horse or core carcass
to evcnj 10 or 12 square yards ; using caution, and not bring-
ing it to the surface of the border within one foot, as its assist-
ance is not wanted the first year.'

" It cannot be denied that this is a process which must not
be called inviting. Has it any disadvantages? Has it any
advantages? These are both very important branches of
inquiry. It may be alleged that it can have no disadvantages,
because the magnificent grapes above referred to, were ob-
tained by it. But we are ignorant of the history of those
Vines since 1S41, and this point it would be desirable to have
elucidated. In the next place, it appears to us that the intro-
duction into Vine borders of pasty masses of matter, such as
result from the use of carrion, is at variance with the first
principles of Vine cultivation, the truth of which was known
even to the Romans.

A free loose earth is ivhat the Vines demand,
Where wind and frost have help'd the lab'rer's hand,
And sturdy peasants deep have stirred the land.

" This was the maxim of Virgil, and all theory and experi-
ence prove its value. Then there are the gaseous results of
decomposition, v/hose putrid odors render Vine borders, con-
structed on Mr. Roberts' plan, so intolerably disgusting. Can
any one seriously believe that such an agency is desirable ?
That it is even suitable? Certainly we are not among the
number. It is perfectly well known that azotized manures in
a state of high concentration, are injurious or destructive to
vegetable life ; as is proved sufficiently by the effect of certain
animal matter, when ihrown upon grass land ; or as we have
just now evidence of before our eyes, in the form of a large
Oak-tree which was almost killed a few years ago, in conse-
quence of the contents of an old ccss-pool having been dug
into the ground about its roots. It is only when diluted that

Oil the Fonnation of Vine Borders. 53

such manures acquire the high vahie which belongs to them.
But it is not alone by their direct action, that they affect
plants injuriously ; the putrid gases which they give out, are
destructive to the young stems and foliage of plants, in pro-
portion to their strength ; such gases are, up to a certain point,
absolute poisons, although below that point they are nutri-
tious. It is not very long since, that plants, in a small green-
house, were almost destroyed inconsequence of a dead hedge-
hog having been allowed to putrify in it ; and it appears from
Mr. Roberts' statement, that some of his young Vines, about
thirty, are dead at the ends; those thirty being 'entirely con-
fined to the roof Vines planted outside,' precisely those which
the light gaseous products of the rotten carrion, used in neigh-
boring borders, though not in their own, would be most likely
to affect. Mr. Roberts, however, is not inclined to refer the
bad condition of his Vines to any such cause ; but he hints at
the glass being possibly in fault. He also refers to Mr. Jones
Nash's admirable Vine borders at Bishop's Slortford, which
' are stated to be gorged with manure, and fleshings of skin-
ners and tanners,' and compares them, as we understand
him, with his own. But, in truth, there is no analogy. Not
a particle of carrion was employed there. Such animal mat-
ters as skin, hair, and trimmings of hides, decompose very
slowly, and are not carrion any more than bones are. It is
the animal matter which rapidly becomes putrid, and passes
off in clouds of poisonous gas, that renders carrion, properly
so called, objectionable.

"The Vine dressers of France object to manure altogether.
Virgil, to be sure, recommends it in some lines, which should
be committed to memory by every young gardener :

Next : when you layers in your Vineyard make,
Mix some rich dung, and shells and pebbles break,
Spread the good soil with lib'ral hand around,
And trench them deeply in the lighten 'd ground ;
Superfluous moisture thus glides through the earth,
And healthy vapors aid the tender birth.

" No doubt these are wise maxims. No modern discovery is
at variance with them ; on the contrary, they are confirmed
by the experience of the most intelligent cultivators. The
whole aim of the poet, is to inculcate the necessity of keeping

54 On the Formation of Vine Borders.

the soil loose. Dung may be used, he says, but then you are
to mix it with shells and broken pebbles, the object of which is
to secure the constant openness of the soil.

" On the other hand, Chaptal, the best French writer on the
Vine, discourages the use of manure.

" ' The same reasons,' he says, ' may be used against the
system of the Vine-growers of the north, who think it advan-
tageous to manure their Vines. By this means, indeed, they
obtain larger crops, and more wine, but it is of bad quality,
it will not keep ; and its smell often ?e7?iifids one, when drank,
of the disgusting substaiices lohich produced it. Manure com-
municates to the Vine too much nourishment. The nutritious
juice, reduced to gas, and received by the mouths of the capil-
lary roots, and by the air-vessels of the leaves, penetrates and
circulates in the sap-vessels, forms the wood of the plant, and
furnishes the substance out of which the shoots, leavos, flow-
ers, and fruit are developed ; the more abundant the nutritive
matter, the more the diameter of the vessels distends, the
more rapid is the circulation ot the sap, because the chan-
nels through which it passes have more capacity. This
causes the sap to circulate in a less state of elaboration, the
result of which must be, that the wine is flat, insipid, and
destitute of all the principles of alcohol. Nevertheless, the
abundant crop thus obtained, and the brilUaiit vegetation, are,
after all, in some measure deceptive, for they can be but tran-
sitory. In Vineyards where manuring is practised, they
only manure once in ten years. It is not to be doubted, that
the effect is very remarkable the first three or four years after
the manuring of the Vines, but, in the succeeding years, the
plants begin to languish; no longer finding that abundance
of nourishment to which they have been accustomed, they
suffer in consequence, and often fall victims to the want of it.
Thus a part of the plants are lost, either by too much or too
little nourishment. But Vines can receive, and it is often ad-
vantageous to give them, such manure as will make good the
poverty of the soil, its exhaustion, or what is required other-
wise for this sort of cultivation. No manure suits Vines bet-
ter than what is properly called vegetable earth, obtained by
the decomposition of plants Mosses, leaves, and turf, mixed
together, thrown up in great heaps, and left for about two

On the Formation of Vine Borders. 55

years to ferment, make the very best manure of this sort.' —
{Traite sur la Culture de la Vigne, i., 333.)

" We will not say that these maxims are exactly applicable
to English Vine growing, we seeking fine bunches of grapes,
the French requiring juice of tine quality ; and we are, there-
fore, ready to concede the value of manure of a proper de-
scription. Nevertheless, although we fully grant this, we are
not the less of opinion that the effect of manure on Vines is
overrated, and we will take the liberty to quote Mr. Roberts'
own Eshton Grapes in our support. He says, 'it maybe in
your recollection, and in that of many of your readers, that a
collection of grapes was submitted by me. in Sept. 1841, to the
Horticultural Society, which was the produce of young Vines.
The borders in which they grew contained carrion, &c., as de-
tailed in my Treatise, and 2intil I find the specimens then sent
superseded^ I will still carry out and recommend the use of
carrion when it can be had.' We find that the weight of
grapes exhibited on this occasion, was as follows, one bunch
in each case.

Cannon Hall Muscat
White Nice - - - _
Black Hamburgh _ - -
Black Prmce - _ _

Black Damascus - - _
Black Morocco - _ _
And the bunches were beautiful. But we have also before
us the following memorandum, to be found in the 'Journal
of the Horticultural Society,' vol. ii., p. 303.

'"On the 21st of August, 1847, the Vice-Secretary received
from Mr. Abel Lewis Gower, four bunches of grapes; one a
Muscat of Alexandria, weighing 2 lbs. 9 oz., and the others
Black Hamburghs, weighing respectively 2 lbs. 9 oz., 3^
lbs., and 5 lbs. The Black Grapes were rather deficient in
color, but of very large size, and excellent quality.'

" Now it will be observed, that the smallest of these bunches
weighed more than Mr. Roberts' Black Hamburgh, and the
largest more than tivice as much ! And how did Mr. Hutch-
ison, the gardener at Castle Malgwyn, obtain them? By
carrion or any such violent and disgusting materials ? Not at
all. He states that ' the compost used in the formation of

2 lbs

!. 3 oz.

56 On, the Formation of Vine Borders.

the border, was hazelly loam, with its turf three parts, and
one part brick, lime rubbish, and broken stones, with a little
rich old dung, the turf well rotted and the whole well incor-
porated ; the borders are forked up and watered with liquid
manure once a year.'

"Mr. Roberts will thus see that his fine Eshton grapes are
' superseded ; ' are, in fact, beaten by specimens more than
twice as good, and that by the use of simple, inoffensive
means, which, moreover, do not render a garden more pesti-
lent than a London churchyard, and so dangerous to health,
that it would be infallibly indicted, if it existed within the
reach of any sanitory regulations. Should Mr. Roberts remain
unconvinced by these arguments, we would at least endeavor
to persuade him to defer the use of carrion till the coming
cholera shall have quitted us."

We, of course, would not attempt to put our grapes in com-
parison with the famous ones of Mr. Roberts, whose borders
are twenty-four feet wide, and three and a half feet deep, and
whose houses are exclusively devoted to the vine. But to
show to what perfection the culture of the grape may be car-
ried in the greenhouse or conservatory, where there is a col-
lection of valuable greenhouse plants, we shall give the
weight of a few clusters which were produced on our vines
last year, then only five years old. 1'he border, it will be
recollected, is only fourteen feet wide, and two and a half
deep, made of good loam and stable manure, with the addi-
tion of a few ground bones, and top-dressed with forty or fifty
pounds of guauo.

Black Hamburgh, 3 lbs. 8 oz., 3 lbs. 4 oz., and 2 lbs. 12 oz. re-
spectively, from one vine. Wilmot's Black Hamburgh, 2 lbs. S
oz., and 2 lbs. 4 oz. respectively, from one vine; the berries
of the latter measuring four inches in diameter; each vine
bearing from 15 lbs. to 20 lbs. We do not note these as any
thing remarkable, as we have seen Black Hamburghs weigh-
ing 4 lbs. ; but they are not very common.

With these remarks, we commend the subject to the atten-
tion of all who are about commencing the cultivation of the
grape : the preparation of the border is important, but it should
not be overdone.

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears. 57

Art. II. Descriptions and Engravings of Select Varieties
of Pears. By the Editor.

In our last volume, we have described and figured tiventy-
fonr varieties of pears, including several remarkably fine
ones, and for the first time brought before pomologists.
These twenty-four, with those in our previous volumes, make
the number, which we have described and figured, upwards
of eighty^ besides many others which have been noticed by
our correspondents, and of which engravings have been given.
We shall continue our descriptions until Ave figure all the fine
varieties in cultivation.

85. Payency. Neiv Duhamel. Pom. Man. Vol. I. p. 98.
Poire de Payency, i

, s

Payenchi,

Payenchi, de Perigord,

Paquency, Fruxls and Fruit Trees of America, p. 404; Horticultu-
rist, Vol. I. p. 447.

r) • J D • J r New Duhamel.
roire de rengford

I > of some French collections.

The Payency, {fig. 5,) though a pear which has been
known for some time among French pomologists, is with us
quite a \\e\Y variety, and, we believe, has only fruited in two
or three collections. Messrs. Ellwanger & Barry, of Roch-
ester, have fruited it, and also described it in the Horticul-
turist^ above referred to, under the name of Paquency, which
is imdoubtedly erroneous, for it answers precisely to the de-
scription in the Neic Duhamel, as quoted in Prince's Pomo-
logical Manual, and the error is natural enough, being merely
the alteration of one letter. Our specimens were received
from Col. Wilder, in whose collection it has fruited for three
or four years. It is a very fine pear, though not quite com-
ing up to the estimate of a first rate one, and merits a place in
every good collection. The tree is of vigorous growth, com-
ing into bearing early, and very productive, — qualities which
go far to make a profitable variety. It grows freely upon the
quince.

Size, medium, about two and a half inches long, and two
inches in diameter : Form, pyramidal, very regular, largest

58 Descriptions nf Select Varieties of Pears.

about the middle, and tapering into the stom : Skin, fair,
nearly smooth, at first pale green, but, when mature, becom-
ing of an orange yellow, much russeted at the base of the
stem, and thickly traced and dotted with russet around the
eye, the dots diminishing in size and number as they ap-
proach the middle: Stem, medium length, about an inch long.

Fig. 5. Paijency.

rather stout, wrinkled, brown, curved, and twisted, and ob-
liquely attached by a slightly fleshy base : Eye, small, and
deeply sunk in a very regular, rather open, round, smooth,
basin; segments of the calyx generally wanting : Fleshy yel-
lowish white, coarse, melting, and juicy : Flavor, saccharine,
vinous, and good : Core, medium size : Seeds, large, very long,
and pointed. Ripe in October.

86. Bonchre'tien Fondante. Hort. Soc. Cat. 3d Ed.

This very fine pear {Jig. 0,) has not been justly estimated
by the generality of cultivators; of rather unprepossessing

Descriptions of Select Vai^ieties of Peai's. 59

appearance, having a dull green skin, with rarely more than
a bronzy shade of red, it cannot claim much on the score of
beauty ; but it has a cool, refreshing juice, which, to lovers of
such pears as the old St. Germain, the Beurre d'Aremberg,
&c., will always give it a place among the best of our autumn
pears. The last season, they were truly delicious, and, though
we made a drawing and description of specimens given to us by
the late Mr. Manning, who considered it a '• first rate" variety,
in 1841, we were not aware of its real excellence until we
had the fruit from our own trees last year.

Fig. 6. Bonchritien Fondante.

The origin of the Bonchretien Fondante is unknown ; but,
according to Lindley, it is a Flemish variety, probably raised
by Yan Mons, which first fruited in England, in the Garden
of the London Horticultural Society. It first bore here with
Mr. Manning, in 1837, since which period it has become con-
siderably disseminated, though not so extensively as its mer-
its deserve. The tree is vigorous, hardy, and productive.

60 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

and succeeds either upon the quince or pear, coming into
bearing the fourth or fifth year. Wood reddish brown, very
thickly covered with small, whitish specks.

Size, medium, about two and three quarters inches long, and
two and a quarter in diameter : Form, oblong, inclining to
oval, slightly swollen on one side, largest in the middle, and
obtuse at the stem : Skin., slightly rough, yellowish green,
faintly streaked with a bronzy red on the sunny side, traced
with russet on the other, and covered with scattered russet
specks, and a few large patches of russet : Stem, medium
length, about one inch long, moderately stout, curved, smooth,
pale brown, and little sunk in a contracted cavity, high-
est on one side : Eye, small, partially closed, and slightly
depressed in a shallow, and somewhat furrowed, basin ; seg-
ments of the calyx rather short, rounded : Flesh, white, coarse,
melting and juicy, and slightly gritty at the core : Flavor,
rich, saccharine, sprightly and refreshing, with a pleasant
perfume : Core, large : Seeds, medium size, pale brown.
Ripe in September and October.

87. Eyewood. Ho7't. Transactions, Yol. IX.

The Eyewod {fig. 7,) is one of the few of Mr. Knight's
pears which have been proved, by American pomologists, to
be worthy of general cultivation. The Dunmore has not yet
been fairly tried; and the true Monarch is still unknown here.
The Althorp Crassane, the Moccas, and the Eyewood, there-
fore, remain as the varieties which, thus far, have proved de-
sirable.

Two good qualities which Mr. Knight's pears all have are,
their exceeding vigor and hardiness, and it goes to prove that,
in the production of new varieties, it is important that at
least one of the parents should be of some very vigorous and
hardy kind. His pears are also great bearers.

The Eyewood is a remarkably vigorous tree, making stout
and strong branches, which are clothed with large buds, with
prominent shoulders, giving it, very properly, the distinctive
appellation of Eyewood, from the exceeding prominence of
the buds or eyes. It may readily be told, in the nursery rows,
from other kinds. Whether it will succeed well upon the

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

quince, we have not ourselves had any experience. Wood
very strong and stout, yellowish brown, with large white
specks.

Size, medium, about two inches long, and two and a half
in diameter : Form, oblate, more broad than deep, flattened
at each end, and largest in the middle : Skin, fair, little rough,
pale green, becoming dull yellow when mature, somewhat
traced with russet, and thickly covered with russet specks:

Fig. 7. Eyewood.

Stem, long, about one and a half inches, slender, curved, and
inserted in a small, moderately deep cavity : Eye, small, open,
and little sunk in a round, smooth, shallow basin : segments
of the calyx short, and partially reflexed : Flesh, white, rather
coarse, melting and juicy : Flavor, rich, subacid, and brisk,
with an agreeable musky aroma : Core, large : Seeds, large,
broad, and partially flattened. Ripe in October, and keeps
for some time.

VOL. XIV. — NO. II. fi

62 Descripliotts of Select Varieties of Pears.

88. Beurre' Duval. Hort. Soc. Cat. 3d Ed.

Mr. Manning has already given our readers some account
of the Beurre Duval, {fig. 8,) in a previous volume of the
Magazine, (VI. p. 89,) where he states it "to be very excellent
and productive." Our opinion is, that it very nearly, if not
quite, equals the Andrews, to which we compare it, not only
on account of its good quality, but because it very much re-
sembles it in form and color, as well as in the peculiar flavor

Fig. 8. Beurrd Duval.

of that fine pear. It is of large size, not, however, of the first
class, and of regular form, and the trees are vigorous and pro-
ductive.

Mr. Manning, we believe, was the first to fruit this variety
here. We find the name of Duval among the lot of scions
received from Van Mons in 1836, and we presume that this was
the period when he obtained it : he opened a correspondence

Descrlplio7is of Select Vai'letlcs of Pears. (^3

with M. Duval, from whom he received several kinds of
pears, and he may have had it from M. Duval himself It is
a new fruit, and as yet but little known. Lindley does not
mention it, although it is included in the Catalogue of the
Horticultural Society for 1831.

The trees, we have said, are productive, and to this we
may add, that they are of vigorous growth, and hardy. It
succeeds also upon the quince, and trees come into bearing
moderately early, about the fourth or fifth year. Wood
brownish olive, with scattered, whitish specks.

Size, large, about three inches long, and two and a half
inches in diameter : Form, pyramidal, regular, full at the
crown, and tapering to the stem, near which it is slightly
contracted : Skin, fair, smooth, pale green, marked with dull
red on the sunny side, and thickly covered with small, russet
specks : Stein, short, about half an inch in length, rather
stout, knobby, straight, and obliquely inserted, in a small cav-
ity, on one side of a swollen lip : Eye, large, open, and slight-
ly sunk in a shallow, uneven basin ; segments of the calyx
medium length, rounded, projecting : Flesh, greenish white,
rather coarse, melting, buttery, and juicy : Flavor, rich, sac-
charine, sprightly, perfumed, and excellent : Core, large :
Seeds, medium size, long, light brown. Ripe in October and
November.

89. Doyenne' Santelete. Guide to the Orchard.
Sentelet, of some collections.

The Doyenne Santelete, {fig. 9,) was one of the one hun-
dred and twenty kinds of scions of pears received from Van
Mons in the spring of 1836, at the same time as the Duval.
Whether or not it succeeded, we are not aware, though it
was marked as living, when received. We do not recollect
of ever having seen it in the collection of Mr. Manning, but,
in the great lumiber which he has fruited, we may have over-
looked it. A few years ago, we obtained it from Jersey, and,
the last season, our trees came into bearing ; it proved to
be a very excellent pear.

The Catalogue of the London Horticultural Society, 3d
Ed., describes a variety under this name, as a ''crisp" pear of

64 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

second quality, but it cannot have any reference to this pear.
Lindley's description corresponds very nearly to ours, and
he states that the flesh, though slightly gritty, is "tender."
But with us, it is more than tender, for, although not quite so
juicy as some pears, it is decidedly melting. As the speci-
mens were grown on an open standard in the Horticultural
Society's Garden, that may have made some diff'erence.

Fig. 9. Doyenni Santelete.

The Doyenne Santelete, we believe, was raised by Van
Mons. It is of vigorous growth and habit, and bears tolera-
bly young, about the third or fourth year. It also grows freely
upon the quince. Wood, stout, yellowish, with large, slightly
oblong, whitish specks.

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears. 65

Size, large, about three inches long, and two and a half in
diameter : Form, obtusely pyramidal, with an uneven sur-
face, full at the crown, and tapering to an obtuse point at
the stem : Skin, slightly rough, dull yellowish green, with
radiating streaks of russet from the stem, and somewhat traced
with the same on one side, little tinged with red in the sun,
and covered with numerous small, dark green specks: Stem,
long, about one and a half inches, rather slender, curved, and
inserted without any cavity, often on one side of the obtuse
end, surrounded with small, uneven lobes : Eije, small, open,
and rather deeply sunk in a small, smooth basin ; segments of
the calyx very short, rounded : Flesh, yellowish white, fine,
melting, and juicy : Flavor, saccharine, vinous, highly per-
fumed and delicious : Core, medium size : Seeds, medium
size, obtusely pointed. Ripe in October, and keeps some time.

90. FiGUE.

The Catalogue of the London Horticultural Society, the
Bon Jardinier, and various French pomologists, describe a
pear under the above name, but there is some doubt as to its
identity with the one now under notice. The Catalogue oiXhQ
London Horticultural Society, in the 2d edition, (1831), de-
scribes the Figue as second size and second quality, but, in the
3d edition, (1842.) it is elevated to a higher rank, viz., second
size and first quality, and, at the same time, it is designated
as one of those kinds which "has proved false, or has been
lost, or, for some other reason, is no longer in the garden."
So far, hov/ever, as color, form, size, and quality go, there
would be but little reason to doubt that our Figue is the same
as that above mentioned ; but the season is stated to be Sep-
tember, and the remark added in the Catalogue, that it "soon
decays," a remark, by the way, Avhich cannot apply to our
pear : for its season is not only two months later, but it keeps
well for some time. It is true that its period of maturity may
vary considerably between the climate of England and our
own, and that this is a too little reliable characteristic to
doubt upon. This may be. But, for the present, in the ab-
sence of more information, we shall consider it a distinct pear.

The specimen from which our drawing {fig. 10,) was made
6*

66 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

we received from Mr. S. Walker, in whose collection it has pro-
duced fruit for five or six years, the original tree having been
received from France seven or eight years ago. Mr. Walker
agrees with us in thinking it distinct from the Figue of the
London Horticultural Society. It is a very vigorous and
hardy tree, bearing large crops every year, and it grows rap-
idly either upon the quince or pear.

Fig. 10. Figue.

Size., medium, about three and a quarter inches long, and two
and a quarter in diameter : Form., oblong pyramidal, regular,
largest near the middle, rounding off to the eye, and tapering
into the stem : Skin, little rough, thick, green, traced with
russet around the crown, and broadly tinged with dull red on
the sunny side : Stem, rather short, about three quarters of an
inch in length, stout, swollen, and very fleshy at the base,

Pomological Rules, ^c. 67

appearing like an extension of the fruit : Eye, medium size,
open, and set even with the surface of the fruit ; segments of
the calyx stiff, short, and reflexed : Flesh, white, coarse, melt-
ing and juicy : Flavor, rich, saccharine, and brisk, with a
slight perfume : Core, large : Seeds, large, long, and pointed,
brown. Ripe in November.

Art. III. Pomological Rules adopted by the New York
State Agricultural Society, at their last Annual Meeting,
with a, list of Fruits which the Executive Committee rec-
ommend as worthy of general cultivation. By A Corre-
spondent,

The Joint Committee of the New York State Agricultural
Society, chosen, in 1846, to select a list of such fruits, for rec-
ommendation to the people of the State, as they, in their judg-
ment, considered most worthy of general dissemination, taking
into consideration the varied soils and climates of the State,
made a report, in part, in January, 1847. They then re-
ported a list of apples, which was published in the 2\ansac-
tions of the society, for 1846. The committee were continued,
and those of them present at the late annual meeting, held at
Albany, viz : Lewis F. Allen, Esq., of Erie Co., Dr. Herman
Wendell, and Dr. E. Emmons, of Albany Co., reported the
annexed list of fruits to be added to the list heretofore recom-
mended. The State Society resolved to have a standing fruit
committee, who are to report, at each annual meeting, names
of varieties to be added to the lists, which, after ample trial,
they may deem worthy of reccommendation for general dis-
semination. The executive committee of the society have
also, on the recommendation of the above committee, adopted
a set of pomological rules for the guidance of their fruit com-
mittees, which is subjoined.

Rules of Pomology, adopted by the new york state agricul-
tural SOCIETY, FOR THE GUIDANCE OF THEIR FRUIT COMMITTEES.

Rule 1st. — No new seedling fruit shall be entitled to a name
or to pomological recommendation, which is not at least equal

68 Pomological Rules, &fc.

to any similar varieties of the first rank already known, or
which, if of second rate flavor, is so decidedly superior in
vigor, hardiness, or productiveness, to varieties of the same
character already known, or which may be found of such su-
perior excellence in particular regions, as to render it well
worthy of cultivation,

Rule 2d. — The discoverer, originator, or he who first
makes known a new native variety of merit, shall be at lib-
erty to confer a name on it, which name, if appropriate, and
coming within the rules of nomenclature, must be adopted by
the writer describing the fruit for the first time ; but no new
native fruit can be considered as definitively named, until the
same has been accurately described in pomological terms, by
the fruit committee of some State agricultural or established
Horticultural Society, or by some pomologist of reputation,
conversant with existing varieties, or until such description
shall have been published in at least one Horticultural, or one
Agricultural Journal, or some pomological work of acknowl-
edged standard character; and when two persons have named
or described a new native variety, then the name first pub-
lished, if consistent with the above, shall be the name of the
fruit.

Rule 3d. — The description shall embrace the following par-
ticulars: Thfi size, form, and exterior color ; the texture and
color of the flesh ; the flavor and time of ripening of the fruit,
with the addition in stone fruits of the size of the stone, adhe-
rence or non-adherence of the flesh, form of the suture, and
the hollow at the stem; and in kernel fruits, of the size of the
core and seeds, the length, position, and insertion of the stalk,
and form of the eye. In peaches, the form of the leaf, glands,
and size of the blossoms. In grapes, the form of the bunches,
and in strawberries, the character of the blossoms, whether
staminate or pistillate, and also, where there is any marked
character in the foliage, growth of the young wood or bearing
tree, the same shall be given.

Rule 4th. — In giving names to newly originated varieties,
those in some way descriptive of the qualities, origin or habit
of fruit or tree, or those which commemorate a particular
place or person, shall be preferred ; all harsh and inelegant
names must be avoided, and unless the originator's name be

Pomological Rules, ^c.

added, no name shall be given which consists of more than
two words, and fruits introduced from abroad, shall not be re-
named.

Rule 5th. — Before giving a name to a new fruit, its qual-
ities should be decided by at least two seasons' experience,
and no new fruit can be safely recommended for general cul-
tivation until the same has been tested and found valuable, in
more than one locality.

LIST OF FRUITS RECOMMENDED BY COMMITTEE, JANUARY 20tH, 1848.

PEARS.

Su?nmej\
Blood good,
Dearborn's Seedling,
Madeleine.

Autumn.
Fondante d'Automne,
Bartlett,
Seckel,

White Doyenne,
Swan's Orange or Onondaga,
Stephens' Genessee,
Beurre Bosc,
Louise bonne de Jersey,
Doyenne Gris,
Washington.

Winter.
Beurre D'Aremberg,
Glout Morceau,
Winter Nelis,
Vicar of Winkfield.

PLUMS.

Jefferson,
Huling's superb.

Reine Claude,
Schenectady Catherine,
Bleeker's Gage,
Columbia,
Peach Plum,
Lawrence's favorite,
Albany Beauty,
Washington Bolmar,
Prince's Imperial Gage,
Coe's Golden Drop,
Denniston's Red,
Prune d'Agen, for Prunes.

GRAPES FOR OPEN CULTURE.

Catawba,
Isabella.

CHERRIES.

May Duke,
Black Tartarian,
Yellow Spanish,
Holland Bigarreau,
Elton,
Downer's Late.

PEACHES.

Early Tillotson,

70 Pomological Rules, ^'c.

Crawford's Early,
Red Rareripe,
George IVth,
Grosse Mignonne,
Cooledge's Favorite,
Malta,

Red Cheek Melocoton,
Brown's Morris,

Morris White,
Yellow Rareripe,
Royal George.

STRAWBERRIES.

Large Early Scarlet,
Hovey's Seedling,
Swainstone Seedling.

We are glad to present onr pomological friends with the
above communication, from our correspondent m Albany,
and commend it to their attention.

We have already stated (p. 14,) in our note to Messrs Ell-
wanger and Barry's communication, that we have some ob-
jections to urge against the "Rules for American Pomology,"
which have lately been established by various Horticultural
Societies. It may appear somewhat presumptuous in us to
doubt the importance and value of such rules, established as
they have been by the votes of the respective associations, or
oppose ourselves to their general application; but, as the firm
friend of every Horticultural improvement, we cannot consent
to the enactment of arbitrary rules, which defeat the very ob-
ject which they were intended to benefit. If we are wrong,
we confess ourselves open to conviction, and, when convinced,
we will cheerfully acknowledge our error.

The rules adopted by the Executive Committee of the N. Y.
State Agricultural Society, are far better than those which
have been adopted by other societies, and have little that is
objectionable attached to them. In spirit, they are correct.
Their only deficiency lies in making a rule of what should be
a mere suggestion. On this point, our views will be under-
stood in another article, in which we have fully discussed the
whole matter. The committee have our sincere thanks for
the independence which they have shown, in striking out a
path of their own ; for the position of the State Society, from
the intelligence and practical knowledge which the Executive
Committee bring to bear upon it, is one of importance, and
will undoubtedly have a controlling influence in promoting
the interests of pomology throughout the State.

The list of fruits recommended by the Executive Commit-

Remarks on Clycamen Ewopcciwi. 71

tee, has our entire approbation, with one exception ; but, as
chmate may cause the difference, we need not designate that, —
intended, as the list is, for the State of New York, though
equally as well adapted to Massachusetts, and the other New
England States, which lie to the East of her boundary.

Art. IV. Remarks 07t Cyclamen EtiropcBum. By John Lewis

Russell.

■ This little plant is said to be the hardiest of the species,
which compose the group of so interesting a genus as is the
Cyclamen. It may be considered as also one of the prettiest.
According to Loudon, it is a native of Britain, and, in the
Histoire des Plantes Veneneuses et siispectes de la France^ by
M. BuLLiARD, we are informed that there are several varieties,
designated by the form of the leaves, as well as the color of
the flowers, which are either red or white. The red, or rather
pale, purplish-colored flowers, belong to the type of the spe-
cies, while the pure white flowers constitute a variety. On
the sixty-fourth plate of the above-mentioned work is a beau-
tiful colored engraving of this plant in foliage and flower ;
and, what is singular, the leaves, buds and blossoms are rep-
resented as simultaneously developed. In this plate, the flow-
ers are of the reddish hue. Appended to the plate is a de-
scription, which intimates that it is a " gay plant, which flow-
ers in the woods in the month of September." Various names
are attached, such as Le Pain de Porceau of the French,
which is synonymous with that of Sowbread of the English,
and Svinbrod of the Swedes. Its scientific specific nomen-
clature indicates its distribution as an European plant, which
is also inferred from a similarity of significant appellatives in
various countries of the continent of Europe. The foliage is
exceedingly rich, consisting of cordiform leaves, of a purplish
tint beneath, and of deep green above, variegated with large
round spots of white, and irregularly circumscribed with whit-
ish lines.

The white-flowered variety is preferable for cultivation to

72 Remarks on Clycamen Europmmn.

the original form. The flowers are of the purest white, and
begin to appear before the leaves, about the middle of Sep-
tember, continuing to blossom for more than a month. The
number depends on the strength and size of the tuber. As
the flowers fade, the foliage expands rapidly, and, after all
the leaves are developed, which takes some weeks, they con-
tinue until June, when, suddenly drying away, nothing more
of a vital character is perceptible until the reappearance of the
blossoms. The success of a good bloom, I have ascertained,
depends on keeping the plant in a fresh state all the year
round. A specimen of both sorts, viz., the purple flower and
the white, was first treated with entire desiccation through
the summer ; the consequence was, the total loss of the first
mentioned, and the weakening of the second to such a degree
as to prevent its flowering on the succeeding autumn, as also
the stinting of its foliage. By pursuing a more liberal course,
I have had the pleasure of enjoying an abundance of exqui-
site blossoms, for the two past years, and a rich supply of
leaves. I suspect that our winters would prove too severe,
should it be treated as a border flower, and indeed, as such,
its merits would be overlooked. It is fairly entitled to pot
culture, and makes a pretty ornament for the parlor or green-
house. Like the rest of the genus, this species does not need
much pot room, nor frequent shiftings. My little plant has
grown in the same pot and soil for these three years, and I
find no deficiency to be remedied. In the latter part of May,
I sink the pot in some shady border, where it remains until I
perceive the flower-stalks rising, when, taking it into the
house, it constitutes a much admired floral gem.

Several other species are known to florists, and all, I sus-
pect, better known than this. Cyclamen coum, from the
south of Europe, has small round leaves and pretty and rather
small red flowers, of which the shape of the petals are of a
rounded outline. C. hedcra^folium is a native of Austria
according to Loudon, who speaks of it as "very scarce, and
agreeably fragrant." — (^E)icyc. Plants^ p. 129.) C. vernum
blossoms in March, and is a spring flowerer, as its name de-
notes. These are pronounced as quite hardy : by this, I pre-
sume, is meant, that they need the protection of a frame, or
may endure the open cultivation of England. C. persicum is

Floriculiural ajid Botanical Notices. 73

justly most admired, being a fine showy sort, blossoming all
winter long, and growing to a great size. There have been
many varieties of this species raised from the seed, which it
produces in abundance. The most beautiful and showy is
the one with white flowers. There are others with reddish,
blush, and lilac tints. No blossom is more attractive for the
parlor window than this, when its delicate and graceful con-
tour and length of continuing in flower are considered. For
some practical remarks relating to the successful treatment of
this species, the reader is referred to an article by S. Sweetser,
on the 2.5lst page of the second volume of this Magazine, for
the year 183(3. Fifty or more flower-buds may be obtained
from a single root, which, with proper management, attains
to a great size, and therefore needs a larger sized pot than
any of the preceding kinds. Amateurs who may be fond of
elegant and unique collections of ornamental plants will find
all the species of Cyclamen worthy their attention.
South Hingham^ December, 1847.

Art. Y. Floricultural and Botanical Notices of New and
Beautiful Plants figured in Foreign Periodicals ; with De-
scriptions of those recently introduced to, or originated ifi,
American Gardens.

Dr. Hooker'' s Botanical Mission to India. — The increased
and increasing patronage, which the Government of this coun-
try aflbrds to science, is a subject of high satisfaction to all
naturalists. This patronage is peculiarly evinced in the lib-
erality with which the treasures contained in the British Mu-
seum, and those in the Royal Gardens of Kew, are rendered
available to the public good. In connection with the latter
establishment, we have to announce that one of the most en-
thusiastic votaries of botany, whose name stands at the head
of the present article, has just quitted this country, to further
its interests. Dr. Hooker, having brought his "Flora Antarc-
tica," part of the results of a previous voyage, to a close, has
been appointed by H. M. Government to investigate the veg-
etable productions of India, and especially of the Himalaya

VOL. XIV. — NO. II. 7

74 FloriciiUiiral and Botaiiical Notices.

mountains ; and, as a treaty is now in progress of negotiation
between the British powers in Hindostan, and the Chinese,
with reference to the boundaries of Thibet, it is possible even
the latter interesting region, may be visited by Dr. Hooker,
in the course of his journey. The most important assistance,
in exploring the botany of Northern India, is promised to our
traveller, by His Excellency the Governor General, Lord
Dalhousie, and by the Court of Directors of the Honorable
India Company. After spending about 12 months in this un-
dertaking, Dr. Hooker's instructions are to return in 1849 to
Calcutta, and thence proceed to Singapore and Borneo. At
the latter island, the valuable aid of His Excellency, Mr.
Brooke, and the protection afforded by H. M. S, Meander
(commanded by the Hon. Capt. Keppel, to which ship Dr.
Hooker will be attached as supernumerary medical officer),
will enable Dr. Hooker to fulfil the designs of the noble and
enlightened First Lord of the Admiralty, Lord Auckland, who
directs that he shall pursue his botanical researches, and draw
up a report on the vegetable productions of the British settle-
ment at Labuan, and such parts of Borneo as can safely be
explored. It is especially his object to ascend, if possible, the
great mountain of Keeny Baloo, supposed to be 14,000 feet
in height. Dr. Hooker embarked at Portsmouth, on the It th
of November, in H. M. steam-frigate Sidon, which conveys
His Excellency, Lord Dalhousie, to Alexandria, eii route for
Calcutta, and he may be expected to arrive there towards the
latter end of this month (December). Two or three months
iVill probably be devoted to investigating the plains of Ben-
gal, and particularly the fossil vegetable remains in the coal
formations at Burdwan; and then Dr. Hooker will journey
northward, perhaps, to Sikkim ; but his exact route must
considerably depend upon circumstances which it is impossi-
ble yet to foresee. — {^London Journal of Botany.)

47. Ixo^RA Griffi'thii Hook. Mr. Griffith's Ixora. (Cm-
chondceoi.) India.

A stove plant -. growing two feet hijh : with red and yellow flowers : appearing in spring : grown
in peat, leaf mould, and sand : increased by cuttings. Flore des Serres, pi. 273. 1847:

The Ixoras are, nearly or quite all of them, stove or hot-
house plants, and are therefore not often seen in our coUec-

FloricuUural and Botanical Notices. 75

tions. Some of thern, however, are very brilliant : but the
species now under notice surpasses them all, having a
handsome habit, well branched, eminently picturesque, with
ample foliage, and very large cymes, formed of a multitude
of flowers with a long red tube, the limb of which is bordered
with orange yellow. It is without doubt the most remarkable
species which has yet been introduced. It was received by
Messrs. Low, of Clapton, from Singapore, who exhibited it
last July before the London Horticultural Society, where it
was awarded the first prize as one of the most beautiful plants
recently imported. (^Flure des Serves, October.)

48. Cama'ssia escule'nta. Lindl. Eatable Camassia. (Lz7i-

dceas.) North America.
Syn. Phalangium Quamash Putsh. P. escul6ntum Null. Anth^ricum
esculentum Spreng. Scilla esculenta Hook.

A hardy bulb ; growing from two to three feet hi^h ; with blue flowers ; appearing in May ; cul-
tivated in strong loam ; increased by ofisets Flore de Sierres, pi. 275. 1847.

Our correspondent. Professor Russell, has given a full ac-
count of this plant in the first volume of our Magazine, (p. 356,)
and recommended it to the attention of amateur cultivators, as
an exceedingly beautiful plant, throwing up its spike of deep
blue flowers in the month of May. It was introduced into
Europe as long ago as 1827, but it is yet extremely rare, and
it is now figured in the Flora of Van Houtte. It grows abun-
dantly in various parts of the country, and is found in Ken-
tucky, Louisiana, in Ohio, on the borders of Lake Huron and
Lake Erie, and in the Valley of the Rocky Mountains. It
throws up a spike of bluish purple flowers, and its hardy char-
acter should claim for it a place in every collection. It is
readily increased by offsets. {Flore des Serres, October.)

49. Vibu'rnum plica'tum Thiinb. Crimped Guelder Rose.

{Caprifolidceoe.) China.

A hardy shrub ; growing eight or ten feet high ; with white flowers: appearing in May; culti-
vated in any good soil ; increased by cuttings and layers. Flore des Serres, pi. 278. 1S47.

This is another of the conquests of Mr. Fortune, in his China
Expedition, and one of the richest acquisitions to our hardy
shrubs. It somewhat resembles our own Fiburnum dentatum ;
But the flowers are white, in round heads, of the size and ap-
pearance of the Guelder Rose. " Mr. Fortune states that this
plant is a native of the northern parts of the Chinese empire,

76 Florictiltiiral and Botanical Notices.

and was found cultivated in the gardens of the rich, by whom
it was much admired. When full grown, it forms a bush
eight to ten feet high. It is a most profuse bloomer, forming
numerous heads of snowball flowers, like the common Guelder
roses." M. Siebold, who found it growing in Japan, says it
is one of the most beautiful shrubs there cultivated. The na-
tives have given it the name of Satsiuna Temari^ indicating
that its native country is Satsuma, the most southern province
ofKin-sia, 31° north latitude. It is a splendid shrub, and
should be immediately introduced. {Flore des SeiTcs^ Oct.)

50. Came'llia japo'nica, var. minia^ta. Vermilion-flowered
Camellia. {Tcimstromidceoc.) English Hybrid.
A very brilliant variety, raised by Messrs. Low, of the
Clapton nursery, from C. myrtifolia, impregnated with Lady
Hume's blush. The flowers are bright vermilion, with pale
centre, and very constant in its colors. Its abundant blos-
soms, the facility with which they open, as well as its neat
habit, and deep green foliage, will render it desirable in every
good collection. {Flore des Senses, Oct.)

5L T KOF jE^oLvm sPECio^svm Fndlicher. Showy Indian Cress.
{Tropoiolaceoe.') Chiloe.

A oreenhouse flower ; growing four feel liiah ; with scarlet flowers •, appeariog in summer ; cul-
tivated ill li^ht soil ; increased by cuttings. Flore des Seires, pi. 281.

The tropaiolums are exquisite little training plants, which
are very little known, and not often seen in our collections
of plants: the present subject is a new one introduced by
Messrs. Veitch, of Exeter, through their collector, Mr. Lobb.
It is one of the prettiest species, having bright scarlet flowers,
which display themselves in great abundance. As summer
flowering plants, this and other species ought to be found in
our collections. {Flore des Serves, Oct.)

52. CnrnfTA WALKE^RiiE Gardn. Mrs. Walker's Chirita.
(Ges/jeracese.) Ceylon.

A stove plant ; ?rowin? two feet hi?h ; with dark purple flowers, appearing in summer ; culti-
vated ill heulh soil, leaf mould, and sand ; increased by cuttings. Flore des Serres, pi. 2i>5. 1S47.

A very pretty gesncraccous plant, with a suffruticosc, but
succulent stem, and axillary flowers on the terminal branches;
the corollas are campanulatc, the tube pale, and the limb of a
rich, very dark purple. {Flore des Serres, Oct.)

JRevleivs. 77

REVIEWS.

Art I. The Rose ; its History^ Poetry^ Culture and Classi-
fication. By S. B. Parsons. 1 Vol. 8vo, pp. 280. New
York, 1847.

So many associations are connected with the rose, that it
would be quite impossible to write a book which should not pos-
sess some interest. The few last years, however, have been
prolific in treatises upon the rose, and that of Mr. Parsons
comes at a time, when we had supposed the whole field had
been thoroughly gleaned, aud not enough remained to inspire
even as ardent a devotee, as our author is, of this courtly
flower, with courage to undertake the publication of an octavo
volume, " labor of love" though he tells us it was, of the size
of the one before us.

To the French almost exclusi'/ely belongs the credit of
bringing the rose to the perfection it has now attained. More
than nine tenths of the immense number of varieties which
the last twenty years have produced have been the growth
of French cultivators, and, latterly, they have principal-
ly been raised by Vibert, Laffay, Souchet, Verdier, and a
few other florists. French authors have also done much to
difl"ase a taste for the cultivation of this lovely flower. Wit-
ness the splendid work of Redoute, in three quarto volumes,
with beautiful plates of most of the choicest varieties which
were cultivated at the period when it was published. Des-
longchamps, to whom Mr. Parsons acknowledges his indebt-
edness, not only for many interesting facts, but for the plan
of the work, has also thrown around the rose an additional
charm from the research which distinguishes his volume.

Until within a few years, the rose has been much neglected
by American cultivators. From the loss attending the intro-
duction of new kinds, — tjie high price which they always com-
mand,— and the danger of the destruction of many of the vari-
eties by our severe winters at the east, the finer roses have
been but little sought after ; add to this, that no rose could
be cultivated without the loss of its entire foliage by the slug,
and we have good reasons for the neglect of this flower, until
7*

78 Reviews.

the great obstacle to their health and beauty was removed by
the timely and valuable discovery of Mr. Haggerston. Since
that period, a great change has taken place, and, at the pres-
ent moment, the collections around Boston are undoubtedly
superior, in variety, if not in extent, to any of the collections
which have obtained so much celebrity in England. Amer-
ican cultivators are now in immediate correspondence with
the French florists, and the new kinds are obtained as soon
as they can be supplied.

To keep up with this increasing taste, two American treat-
ises have already appeared ; they have been confined, however,
wholly to the culture and management of the plants, and the
descriptions of flowers. Mr. Parsons has, therefore, entered a
new field, and has not trod its paths without success. His
object, which was to throw around the rose "a halo of pleas-
ant thoughts and associations," has been accomplished. One
of the pleasant features of the volume is the " multifarious
garland" of poetical gems upon this favorite flower, which the
author has gathered from various sources, wreathing among
them some efl"usions of his own. This poetical chapter closes
the miscellaneous portion of the volume, and the remainder
is devoted to its culture, classification, &c.

And here it is, that we have some little fault to find with
the volume. First, on the culture of the rose, and the im-
provements which have been made by hybridization, we do not
learn that Mr. Parsons has even hinted at the great achievement
in the culture of the rose in this country, — one, certainly, which
is not surpassed even by the greatest success of Vibert or Lafi'ay ;
— we refer to the production of the prairie roses by Messrs. Feast
of Baltimore, and Pierce of Washington. We venture to say that
no foreign rose yet raised has, in the same period, been so exten-
sively disseminated as the Queen of the Prairies, and we freely
confess that, to our mind, no efforts of English cultivators can
compare with, and, certainly, none of the French excel, those
of the gentlemen above named. Mr. Rivers is mentioned as
having " originated some varieties," but, with the exception
of George IV., none scarcely worth naming. This is an over-
sight which is almost unpardonable.

Reviews. 79

And, next, we refer to the classification of roses, and we
let the author speak for himself: —

" A difficulty and confusion exist in llie classification adopted by tiie vari-
ous Enolish and French lose growers. 15y iliem, classes are niulii|iiied and
roses placed in lliern, without sufTicient atiention to liieir disiinciive charac-
ters. These are subsequently changed to other chisses, to the utter confu-
sion of those who are really desirous of attaining some knowledge of the
respe tive varieties. Kven Hivers, tiie most correct of them all, tias, in
several catalogues, the same rose in as many difTerent classes, and his book
may, perhaps, place it in another.

" If there exists, ihr;n, this doubt of the proper class to which many roses
belong, we think it would be better to diop entirely this sub clutsificalion,
and adopt some more general heads, under one ol wiiicli every rose con be
.classed. It may often be difficuli to asceitain whether a rose is a Damask,
a Provence, or a hybrid China ; but there can be no difficulty in ascertain-
ing whether it is dwarf or climbing ; whether it blooms once or more a year ;
and whether the leaves are rough, as in the Hemontants, or smootli, as in
the Bengals. We have, therefore, endeavored to simj)lily the old classifi-
cation, and have placed all roses under three principal lieads, viz. : —

" I. Those that make distinct and separate periods of bluuiu ihioughout the
season, as the Remontant roses.

"II. Those that bloom conlinunlly, without any lemporaiy ces:ation, as
the Bourbon, China, &c.

" III. Those that bloom only once in the season, as the French and oth-
ers.

" The first of these includes only the present Damask and Hybrid Perpet-
uals, and, for these, we know no term so expressive as the French Pemon-
TANT. Perpetual does not express their true character.

" The second general liead we call EvtRBLOojuNC. This is divided into
five classes : —

" 1. The Bourbon, which are easily known by their luxuriant growth,
and thick leathery leaves. These are, n-oreover, [lerlectly haidy.

'• 2. The China., which includes the jjresent China, 'I'ea.aud Noisette roses,
which are now much confused, as there are many among the teas wiiich
are not tea-scented, and, among the Noisettes, which do not bloom in clus-
ters. They are, moreover, much alike in their growth and habit, and it is
better each should stand upon its own merits, and i.ot on the characteristics
of an in aginary class.

" 3. Musk, known by its rather rougher foliage.

" 4. Macart.vay, known by its very rich, glossy foliage, almost evergreen.

" 5. Macrophylla, easily distinguished by its peculiar foliage, and strag-
gling habit.

" The third general head we divide again as follows : —

" 1. Garden Rosf.s. This includes all the present French, Provence, Hy-
brid Provence, Hybrid China, Hybrid Bourbon, White, and Damask roses,
many of which, under the old arrangement, difler more from others, in their
own class than from many in another class.

80 General Notices.

" 2. Moss Roses, all of which are easily distinguished.

"3. BaiAR Roses, which will include the Sweet Briar, Hybrid Sweet
Briar, and Autumn Briar.

" 4. The Scotch Rose.

" 5. Climbing Roses, which are again divided into all the distinctive
subdivisions.'' — pp. 237, 239.

Now we cannot see that our author's classification is any
more simple than the old. So far as possible, we would al-
ways adopt words in our own language to express any ob-
ject. Now, although the French word remontant may do very
well for those who are conversant with the French language,
those who ore not, — and they comprise the greater part of cul-
tivators,— will have no conception of its meaning, while the
good old word perpetual carries with it its true appellation,
^rhe remontant roses are perpetual until cut off by frost, as
all roses are. We, therefore, cannot admit the innovation,
but adhere to the old classification. In ihe great intermixture
of classes by hybridization, it is expected that there will be
some which it will be difficult to place in any particular class.
But tliis is not important. That to which they come nearest
is sufficient for all practical purposes.

But these are only exceptions to the general character of
the volume. Upwards of two hundred varieties are described,
and beautiful colored plates of La Reine and Chromatella
accompany it. As a handsome ornament for the parlor-table,
and a desirable addition to the rose-fancier's library, we heart-
ily commend the volume.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General Notices.

Slrawberry Runners. — T beg to give my opinion in favor of cutting the
runners off strawberry plants. Being a lover of this fruit, and therefore
anxious to procure information upon its cultivation, my attention was ar-
rested by an able leading article in the Chronicle some years ago, against
mowing off the foliage of the strawberry at the fall of the year, as also
against other abuses which had crept into its cultivation. The directions
given in this article 1 implicitly obeyed, and have every reason to be grate-
ful for the knowledge which it imparted. But the cutting off the runners
being a subject upon which that article did not enter, I was induced to ex-

General Notices. 81

perimpnt upon it myself. For this jjurpose I made a new planialion, in
which the plants were placed eighteen inches apart in the rows, and the
rows themselves two feet asunder. I have never allowed a runner to ex-
ceed half a foot in length upon any of these, and the consequence has been
that the plants have become strong- and bushy. The crop this season has
been abundant and the fruit individually large in size. While my neigh-
bors' plants during winter seemed to be cree[)ing back whence they came,
not being able to bear the withering and biting blast of the season, mine
stood up full of freshness and vigor, and ready to start into growth at the
first approach of spring. So convinced am \ of the projiriety of culiivat-
iljg this fruit in separate and distinct plants, and of cutting off the run-
ners, that I have this season taken out a plant between each of my plan-
tations, thus making the distance between each plant four feet by three.
From these I am cutting oflf the runners with the greatest care. But why
huddle up strawberry plants together and cultivate other fruits separately
and distinctly'' Does not this plant, as others, exclaim, in language not to be
mistaken, " Give me air or I shall die?" Having procured a few of the
Aberdeen Bee Hive, 1 observe that the instructions given with them are,
that the runners be cut till the end of August, and that they be planted
three apart each way. — {GanJ, Chron. 1847, p. 0G9.)

Large Fruited Monthly Raspbern/. — I beg to send you some raspberry
canes cut off near the ground and placed in pots. The variety is, 1 think,
one of the most valuable introductions we have lately been favored with in
that class of fruits. It is, I believe, of cmitinetilal origin, and may be
called the " Large Fruited Monthly Raspberry ;" it continues to bear (rom
the end of August, aU through Sef>tember. October, and, if the frost is not
very severe, (it does not mind a slight frost,,) till the end of November.
The late heavy rains have injured its flavor slightly ; before tliey visited us
it was quite equal in flavor, as you will oi)serve it is in size, to raspberries
in July. To ensure a very abundant crop in autumn, all the canes should
be cut down in spring close to the ground ; but a good autumnal crop may
be obtained, as well as a crop in summer, by leaving only one cane cut in
the usual manner, to each root, culling ihe others down closely for the au-
tumnal crop. My plants are now covered with fruii in all its stages, and
many lateral shoots are just coming into bloom, so thai, if grown in large
pots and placed under glass, raspberries may be gathered in Deceniber.
[The canes submitted for inspection were healthy and fine, and loaded with
fruit, which was, however, unfortunately, spoiled by travelling.] — {Gard.
Chron. 1847, p. 686.)

Cultivation of Pear^. — After some remarks on plums and cherries, Mr.
Laidiaw said that there was one family of fruits which he thought deserved
more attention than any he had named ; he alluded to pears, many of ihe
French and Flemish varieties of which were of far greater value than
peaches and nectarines, and as some of them did not ripen their fruit well
unless when grown against a wall, peaches and nectarines ought noi to be
cultivated to the exclusion of these. Pears required a dry suhtoil, a shal-
low border, no manure. The horizontal mode of training was motl condu-

82 Domestic Notices.

cive to fruitfulness. Mr. Laidlaw recommended a copious supply of water
at the roots of all wall trees during the time of the fruit swelling, and con-
cluded by giving a list of what he considered the best kinds in cultivation.
Mr. Moore agreed with Mr. Laidlaw that many of the pears deserved a
south wall ; he advocated root-pruning from a lengthened experience of its
BiTecis on pears. Mr. Rainbow said that he cultivated a great number
of the best varieties of Flemish Pears as dwarf standards, the roots of
which he regularly pruned, and thereby kept them in an excellent bearing
condition. He approved of thinning the shoots of peaches early, and stop-
ping those that were to remain as soon as they had completed their mid-
summer growth. Mr. Croxford spoke also in favor of thinning the shoots
of peaches early, but thought it advisable not to nail them to the wall until
the fruit began to ripen. — {Gard. Chron., 1847, p. 799.)

Art. II. Domestic Notices.

Gnaphalium Candelabrum, {Fischer ?) ; Chandelier-formed Gnaphalium,
(Compositas.) An annual, with numerous stems branching upward from
the root in the form of a chandelier, whence its name.

Some seeds forwarded from Prof. Fischer, of St. Petersburgh, to the
Massachusetts Horticultural Society, received last December, contained,
among other varieties, the above new (to us) species of Gnaphalium, of
which I was able to raise a single plant, which, during the month of Sep-
tember, gave a profusion of heads of flowers, of no merit as an ornamental
addition to the garden. They were not unlike those of the common Gnapha-
lium polycephalum, but destitute of smell. From a single root, many de-
cumbent stems issued, which afterward assumed a somewhat upright direc-
tion, branching in a somewhat verticillate mode, and reminding one of a
many-branched chandelier, so that the specific name was seen to be very
appropriate. The foliage, and entire plant, indeed, were very downy, and
of a silky, white, pubescent character. — /. L. R., South Hingham, Decem-
ber, 1847.

Seedling Dahlias, Pelargoniums , and Roses. — I received a short note from
you, some time early in the summer, in which you promised to send me
some pelargonium seed, saved from your fine kinds. I have no doubt but
your diversified avocations drove a small matter like that out of your head.
For some four years past, I have amused myself with rearing seedlings of
different kinds ; and really, had I time, or if I thought you cared for it, I
could describe some results of my experiments, which would surprise you.
My first effort of the kind was with the dahlia. I have raised and flowered
more than a hundred, and can show now as many as six seedlings, which,
as our friend the doctor says, are really belter than most of the imported
varieties. " Betty Woodson," a distinct tri-color, and " Billy Button," a
crimson scarlet, are small, though perfect. "Miss Leonard," a large
white, with rich carmine tip, is rather more than semi-globular, and a very
profuse bloomer.

Domestic Notices. 83

In pelargoniums, I have produced from seed some dozen fine liinds, of
which three, 1 hesitate not to say, are superior to any I have imported. I
find, however, in those produced from seed, saved from my plants, a greater
similarity than is desirable between them and their parents. Hence my
wish for seed from abroad. 1 do not think that the passion for this beauti-
ful exotic will be lasting here. Only a few, comparatively, have the means
of protecting them during the winter, and very few will take the pains to
follow the excellent directions, as to their culture, given by Messrs. Russell
and Beck. I would be delighted to send you specimens of some of my
plants.

But the rose, — the rose is my passion. I have about fifty varieties, and
have succeeded in raising two from seed which are worthy of preservation.
One is, I know, a seedling from the hybrid remontante " Madame Laffay." It
resembles its parent in foliage. Wood, however, is constantly glaucous-green.
Rose rather larger and expanded, with a rather duller color. My other
seedling reminds me of a rampant hybrid, which Mr. G. C. Thorburn sent
me in 1841, and of which we are uncertain whether it be Prince's " Pal-
lagi panachee," or the " Saudeur panach6," of the catalogues. Mine is
a cluster rose, though not a climber. I think both these will improve, as
they bloomed, for the first time, only last May. I have now, in boxes, in
my little shed, several hundred seed saved from fine kinds. — Yours, Jas. P.
Waclde.U, Athens, Ga., Dec. 1847. [We certainly hope our correspondent
will send us an account of the routine adopted to produce such seedlings as
he has mentioned. — Ed,]

Seedling Fuchsias and Devoniensis Rose. — Is the "Maria Leonida" a
microphylla or a McCartney ? It is almost as vigorous here as the " Chero-
kee" or Laevigata. 1 have some fuchsias from seed, sent by you last Feb-
ruary, which are three and four feet from the surface of the pot, one
(which, in repotting, I discovered to be tuberous,) is about sixteen inches
high, and all exceedingly vigorous. Please describe the " Devoniensis"
rose. I have a beautiful rose received as such, which, however, certainly
does not answer the specifications of the catalogues. It is large and ex-
panded ; very beautiful in bud ; of a very pale creamy blush ; rather deeper
in the centre, just before full expansion, and exquisitely fragrant. Y^oung
wood, pale green, and dull red. — Yours, J. P. W., Athens, Ga,, Dec. 1847.
[The description of the Devoniensis answers to that fine rose, and is un-
doubtedly true ; it is only beautiful when in bud, but its odor is remarka-
bly exquisite. The Maria Leonida is not a microphylla. — Ed.]

Best Stocks for Roses. — I observe, in one of your back numbers, (in reply
to an objection to the Boursault for stocks, that it throws up suckers,) you
ask, " What stock will notl" Let me give you a little of my experience on
this point. I have done some budding, and with remarkable success. I
believe that the cheapest and best stock for rose-budding, is to be procured
by sowing sefeds of the Champney Noisette. Sow them in the greenhouse
in boxes ; transplant in convenient rows, whenever safe, and, by June of the
second year, they will have thrown up each a distinct and luxuriant fascicle
of shoots. Select of these one or more ; insert the buds ; keep down all

84 MnssacJmsctts Horticultural Society.

buds and shoots till your inserted germ shall have attained strength, and
you will have a stock, which will not sucker, and which, unless I am
much mistaken, will last a long time. 1 have not confined myself to seed-
ling stocks, but have fine standatds from the Felienberg and Comptesse de
Griilon, which are not very valuable intrinsically. I have La Reine and
LafFay's Indigo on a seedling stock, gi-owing beautifully since last July,
and La Reine and Solfitaire on Griilon. The greatest objection to Harri-
son's Yellow, is the number of suckers it sends up. — Vtry respectjulli/,
Jas. P. Waddell, Athens, Ga., Dec. 1817.

Art. IIL Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, December 25th, 1817. — An adjourned meeting of the Society
was held to-day, — the President in the Chair.

Messrs. Walker and French, the delegates appointed to attend the Annual
Exhibiiioa of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, submitted the follow-
ing report : —

The delegates appointed to visit the Annual Exhibition of the Pennsylva-
nia Horticultural Society, held at Philadelphia, on the 15th, 16th, and 17th
of September, 1847, beg leave respectfully to report that they have attended
to the duty assigned them.

The fame of this Society, for its enthusiastic love of flowers and fruits, —
its usefulness — its zeal — its gorgeous displays, rendered more efficient by
the extent of its splendid Hall — and the hospitality of its members, has
reached every part of our country. With a full knowledge of these facts,
your Committee proceeded to Philadelphia, with the impression that they
should be made wiser, if not better, by the grand exhibition they antici-
pated. In this, they were not disappointed. The exhibition of pot plants
was truly a splendid affair. The designs were beautiful — the arrangements
chaste. Indeed, every thing was so nicely managed, by the efficient com-
mittee of ladies and gentlemen, that the Hall, from its entrance to its roof,
told that the spirit of Horticulture ivas there.

To go into detail is not the province of your Committee; but they can-
not refrain stating that the floral display of this society was far superior to
any thing of the kind they ever visited.

The fruit department contained many fine specimens of apples, pears,
plums, and peaches ; but, as this was not an abundant fruit season in that
state, the specimens were not so numerous as usual.

Among the varieties of pears, we noticed several seedlings which orig-
inated in Philadelphia, and its vicinity, some of which are already known
and cultivated in Europe, as of the best quality, viz. : — Seckel, Petre, Lodge,
Chapman, Moyamensing, Pennsylvania, Haddington, Washington, Copasa,
Kingsessing, and Tyson.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 85

The kind attentions and courteous civilities extended to your committee
will ever be remembered and cherished. [Signed.]

Voted, That a Committee of three be appointed to settle with the Treas-
urer of Mount Auburn.

The President, the Treasurer, and the Chairman of the Committee on
Finance, were appointed that Committee.

Voted, That the President and Secretary be authorized to send copies of
the '^^ Transactions of the Society," to such horticultural and agricultural
societies and distinguished personages as they may think expedient.

The Committee, appointed to determine the days of the Annual Exhibi-
tion of the Society, reported that they suggest the 20th, 21st, and 22d of
September next.

Voted, to accept the report, and that the Corresponding Secretary be re-
■quested to announce the same to the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.

Meeting dissolved.

The President reported that the Committees on Flowers, Fruits, and
Vegetables, had made out their lists of premiums, which had been
awarded for the year 1847, which were to be published in the Transactions
of the Society. The Reports are subjoined : —

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FLOWERS,

AWARDING PREMIUMS FOR 1847.

Premiums at the openinfr of the Hall.

Pelargoniums. — Class H. — For the best 6 varieties, to William

Quant, . . . . . . $6 00

For the second best, to William Mellar, . . . 4 00

Fuchsias. — For the best 6 varieties, to William Quant, . . 6 00

Cinerarias. — For the best 6 varieties, to William Quant, . . 3 00

Calceolarias. — For the best 6 varieties, to William Mellar, . 3 00

For the second best, to Azell Bowditch, . . . 2 00

Green-house Plants in Pots. — For the best, to William Quant, . 8 00

For the second best, to Azell Bowditch, . . . 5 00

Cut Flowers. — For the best display, to William Quant, . . 3 00

For the second best, to James Nugent, . . .2 00

Premiums during the season.

Plants in Pots . — For the best display during the year, to W. Quant,

the Appleton Gold medal, . . . . .40 00

For the second best, to Messrs. Hovey & Co., the Society's

Silver gilt medal, . . . . 15 00*

Camellias. — For the best 12 varieties, to Hovey & Co., , . 8 00.

For the second best, to William Quant, . . . 5 00

Primulas. — For the best 6 varieties in pots, to William Quant, . 3 00.

For the second best, to Hovey & Co., . . . . 2 00'

Azaleas. — For the best 6 varieties, to Hovey & Co., . .6 00>

Hyacinths.— For the best display, to Breck «& Co., . .5 00'

VOL. XIV. — NO. II. 8

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Tulips. — For the best 30 distinct varieties, to Brack & Co.,

For the second best, to Samuel Waliier,
Pansies. — For the best 12 varieties, to Hovey & Co.,

For the second best, to Breck & Co., .
Hardy Azaleas. — For the best display, to Messrs. Winship

For the second best, to Hovey & Co., .
Hawthorns. — For the best display, to Messrs. Winship, .

For the second best, to Samuel Walker,

Roses — In classes, as follows : —

Hardy Roses.
Class I. — For the best 30 distinct varieties, to Breck & Co.,

For the second best, to Hovey & Co., .

For the third best, to J. L. L. F. Warren,

For the best display, to Breck & Co., .
Class n. — For the best 12 varieties, to Messrs. Winship,

For the second best, to Azell Bowditch,

Perpetual Roses.
Class HI. — For the best 10 varieties, to Breck & Co., ,

For the second best, to Augustus Aspinwall,

Prairie Roses.
Class IV. — For the best display, to Samuel Walker,
For the second best, to Messrs. Winship,

PEONIES. — For the best 12 flowers, to Breck & Co.,

For the second best, to Samuel Walker,
Pinks, — For the best 6 varieties, to William Mellar,
Carnation and Picotee Pinks. — For the best 10 varieties, to
Hovey & Co., ......

For the second best, to S. R. Johnson,

For the best display, to Hovey & Co.,
Double Hollyhocks. — For the best display, to Messrs. Winship,
Double Balsams. — For the best display, to William Quant,

For the second best, to Thomas Needham,

For the third best, to John Quant,
Phloxes. — For the best 10 varieties, to Breck & Co.

For the second best, to Samuel Walker,

For the third best, to Parker Barnes,
German Asters, — For the best display, to Hovey & Co.

For the second best, to John Quant,

For the third best, to John Thomas, f.

,^8 00
6 GO
4 00
3 00
3 00

2 00

3 00
2 00

8 00
6 00

4 00
3 00

5 00
3 00

00
00

4 00
3 00

5 00

3 00

4 00

5 00
4 00
3 00

2 00

3 00

2 00

1 00

6 00

4 00

3 00

4 00
3 00

2 00

Bouquets, Wreaths, ^c-j '"^ the Annual Exhibition.

Vase Bouquets. — For the Marble Vases, to Hovey & Co., . 10 00

To J. L. L. F. Warren, 6 00

For the Bradlee Vases, to James Nugent, . . . 10 00

To Messrs. Winship, . . . . . . 6 00

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Parlor Bouquets. — For the best pair, to Messrs. Winship,

To Charles Brims, ......

To Hovey & Co., ......

Hand Bouquets. — To Azell Bowditch, ....

To James Nugent, ......

To R. West,

Bouquets of Indigenous Plants. — For the best pair, to J. Quant,
To E. M. Richards, ......

Designs. — For the best design, to William Quant, .

For the second best, to J. Thomas, ....

For the third best, to Hovey & Co., ....

For the fourth best, to Thomas Needham,
Wreaths. — For the best, not less than 30 feet, to S. A. Walker, .

For the second best, to William Quant,

For the third best, to Azell Bowditch, ....
Grass Bouquets. — To J. L. L. F. Warren,

Dahlias — In Divisions, as follows : —

Division A.
Premier Prize. — To Parker Barnes, the Society's Silver medal,
Specimen Bloom. — To J. L. L. F.Warren,
Various Colors. — For the best yellow, to Henry Reed,

For the best buff, to Parker Barnes,

For the best purple or maroon, to T. Needham,

For the best crimson or claret, to John Quant, .

For the best very dark, to Parker Barnes,

For the best white, to William Quant, .

For the best edged or tipped, to T. Needham, .

For the best pink or rose, to Thomas Needham,

For the best scarlet, to John Quant,

Division B.
Class I. — For the best 24 blooms, to William Quant,

For the second best, to James Nugent,
Class II. — For the best 18 blooms, to Parker Barnes,

For the second best, to J. L. L. F. Warren,
Class III. — For the best 12 blooms, to Hovey & Co.,

For the second best, to William Quant,
Herbaceous Perenmals. — For the best display through the sea-
son, to Messrs. Breck & Co.,

For the second best, to Messrs. Winship,

For the third best, to Hovey & Co.,
Annuals. — For the best display through the season, to Messrs.
Breck & Co., ....

For the second best, to Parker Barnes,

For the third best, to Thomas Needham,

$5 00
3 00

2 00

3 00

2 00

1 00

3 00

2 00
12 00

8 00
6 00
5 00
10 00
5 00

3 00
2 00

88 Massachusetts Horticidtwal Society.

Gratuities

Awarded al the TTVeA/y Shows mid for Objects during the season.

To Marshall P. Wilder, for a fine display of Camellias, Feb. 13lh, . $S CO

To Hovey & Co., for two fine specimens of Pimelea, March 13lh, . 3 00
To Marshall P. Wilder, for display of Green-House Plants,

May 15th, . . . . . . 8 00

To T. Willott, for the same, . . . . . 6 00

To Henry lieed, for fine Cytisus racemosus, . . . 3 00

To R. M. Copeland, for a display of Hyacinths, May 22d, . . 3 CO

To William Quant, for fine Stephanotus floribundus, . . 5 00

To Parker Barnes, for fine Pansies, May 29lh, . . . 2 00

To John Thomas, for Moss Vase and Flowers, . . . 2 00

To Samuel Walker, for a display of Ranunculus, June 12th, . 3 00

To J. L. L. F. Warren, for fine displays of Rhododendron, June 12th, 3 00

To J. L. L. F. Warren, for six fine Hand Bouquets, . . 1 00
To J. E. Teschemacher, for Echinocactus Oiibnis, E. Eryiesj, and

Ismene calathinum, . . . . . . 3 00

To Hovey & Co., for fine Hydrangea japonica, June 19th, . . 3 00

To John Thomas, for Vase and Flowers, . . . . 2 00

To Azell Bowditch, for Hand Bouquets, . . . . 1 00

To Break & Co., for a fine display of Pinks, June 26th, . . 2 00
To John Thomas, for Designs, $5, $2, 01, , . . .8 00

To M. P. Wilder, for a fine display of New Tree Peeonies, . 6 00
To Marshall P. Wilder, for 10 fine varieties of New Gladiolus,

July 3d, . . . . . . . 5 00

To J. E. Teschemacher, for a fine Haemanthus tenuifolius, . . 3 00

To John Thomas, for seven fine Thunbergias, July 10th, . . 2 00

To Thomas Needham, for Buddlea Liiidleyana, . . . 1 00

To J. L. L. F. Warren, for Cactus, . . . . 1 00

To J. Nugent, for Hand Bouquets, July 17th, . . . 1 00

To Hovey & Co., for fine Japan Lilies, July 17th, , . . 5 00

To Parker Barnes, for Seedling Pinks, July 17th, . . . 2 00

To Marshall P. Wilder, for a fine display of Japan Lilies, July 24th, 5 00

To Marshall P. Wilder, for a fine Veronica Lindleyana, . . 3 00

To William Mellar, for a fine Clivia nobilis, . . . 3 00

To Joseph Breck & Co., for a fine display of Double Hollyhocks, . 3 00

To Parker Barnes, for the same, . . . . . 2 00

To Miss Russell, for Basket of Flowers, July 31st, . . .100

To J. Thomas, for Vase of Lidigenous Flowers, August 7th, . 2 00

To William Quant, for 6 fine Cockscombs, August 14th, . . 3 00

To J. L. L. F. Warren, for fine display of Gladiolus, . . 3 00
To Cheever Newhall, for a fine Lagerstrae'mea myrtifolia, August l4th,3 00

To John Thomas, for Moss Vase and Bouquet, , . . 2 00

To Miss Russell, for Pyramid of Flowers, . . . . 1 00

To Parker Barnes, for a fine specimen of Ipomopsis picta, Aug. 21st, 2 00

To Hovey & Co., for two fine Gesn6ra tubiflora, . . . 3 00

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

To Miss Russell, for Basket of Flowers,

To Miss Russell, for the same, August 28th,

To John Quant, for 6 fine Cockscombs, August 28th,

To Miss Russell, for Basket of Flowers, September 4th,

To Marshall P. Wilder, for a fine display of Dahlias, October 2d,

To Breck & Co., for Dahlias, October 2d, .

To Miss Russell, for Bouquet, ....

Awarded at the Annual Exhibition.

To S. A. Walker, for Motto, . .

To Miss Sparrell, for Grass Designs,

To Miss Bowker, for the same.

To Jonathan Mann, for Grass Bouquet,

To Miss Russell, for two Baskets of Flowers,

To Miss Kcnrick, for Baskets of Flowers and Wreath,

To Miss Russell, for a pair of Stars,

To John Quant, for a large Bouquet,

To Azell Bowditch, for a Wreath, .

To Charles Brims, for Mosaic Design,

To Orr N. Towne, for Design,

To Henry Reed, for the same,

To Samuel Walker, for the same, .

To Master A. Walker, for the same.

To J. L. L. F. Warren, for Hand Bouquets,

To Alexander McLellan, for fine Cockscombs,

To James McNeil, for Design,

Premiums for Plants in Pots, Bouquets, &c.

Plants in Pots. — To William Quant, $-2, $2, ^

To A. Bowditch, #1, ^1,

To John Thomas, $2, $1, $2, $1, #2, $2, $2

To J. L. L. F. Warren, $1, $2, $2, #2,

To Messrs. Hovey & Co., $1, $1, p, #2,

To John Quant, $1,
Vase Bouquets. — To J. Thomas, $2, $2, #2, |

To W, Mellar, $2,

To W. B. Richards, #1,

To Messrs. Hovey & Co., #2, $2, $2, $2, $2

To J. L. L. F. Warren,$l,$l,$l, .

To William Quant, $2,

To Miss Russell, ^1, $2,
Mantel and Parlor Bouquets, &c. — To A. Bowditch,

To William Quant, $1, $2, $2,

To J. L. L. F. Warren, $1, $2, $2, $2, #2, ^,

To Messrs. Hovey «& Co., $2, #2, $2, $1, $1, #2, #1,

To Messrs. Winship, f 1, $1, $2, $2, $1, $2, #2, $2, f.

. $1

. 1

. 3

. 1

. 6

. 5

. 1

. 7

. 4

. 3

. 4

. 2

. 1

. 3

. 2

. 1

. 3

. 5

. 8

. 2

. 12

. 7

. 6

. 1

. 7

. 2

. 1

. 11

. 3 00

. 2

. 3

. 2

. 5

. 11

15 00

90 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

To J. Thomas, $2, $2, $2, $2, f8 00

To Miss Russell, $tl, fl, . . . . .2 00

To James Nugent, $'1, $1, $1, . . . . . 3 00

Hand Bouqoets.— To Hovey & Co., $1, #2, $2, $2, $2, $2, $2,

$2, $2, $-2, $l,$-2,f2, 24 00

To J. L. L. F. Warren,^l,$l,fl $1,$2, tl,.fl, ^1, . 9 00

To A. Bowditch, $2, §2, $2, ^\, $'2, #1, $\, $2, $\, $\,^l, #1, $2, 19 00
To J. Nugent, $1,$1,$2, . . . . .4 00

To A. McLennan, ^1, . . . . , . 1 00

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FRUITS,

AWARDING PREMIUMS FOR 1847.

The Committee on Fruits submitted the following report :

The Committee on Fruits of the Massuchusetts Horticultural Society,

respectfully submit the following Report of the Premiums and Gratuities

awarded by them the present year : —

For the best and most interesting Exhibition of Fruits during the
season, to John F. Allen, of Salem, the Lowell Gold Medal,
valued at . . . . . . $40 00

SPECIAL PRIZE LIST.

Apples. — For the two best varieties of Summer Apples,

To E. M. Richards, of Dedham, for the Benoni, . . 5 00

To John Hovey, of Roxbury, for the Early Harvest, . 5 OQ

For the two best varieties of Autumn Apples,

To Eben. Wight, of Dedham, for the Gravenstein, . . 5 00

To John Owen, of Cambridge, for the Porter, . . 5 00

For the two best varieties of Winter Apples,

To E. M. Richards, of Dedham, for the R. I. Greening, . 5 00
Second premium withheld.
Pears. — ^For the two best varieties of Summer Pears.

The Committee withheld these two prizes, as the specimens
exhibited were not, in the opinion of the judges, meritorious.

For the best varieties of Autumn Pears,

To A. D. Williams &. Son, of Roxbury, for the Urbaniste,
To H. Vandine, of Cambridgeport, for the Flemish Beauty,

For the two best varieties of Winter Pears,

To Josiah Lovett, of Beverly, for the Winter Nelis,
'J'o E. M. Richards, of Dedham, for the Echasserie,
Cherries. — For the two best varieties of Cherries,

To Marshall P. Wilder, of Dorchester, for the Black Eagle,
To Samuel Walker, of Roxbury, for the Downer's Late Red,
Ploms. — For the two best varieties of Plums,

To J. L. L. F. Warren, of Brighton, for the Green Gage, .
To Samuel R. Johnson, of Char]estown,for the Washington,

The Peaches exhibited for the special prizes were not worthy.

5 00

Massachusetts Hortmdtural Society. 9X

At the Annual Exhibition in September .
Apples. — For the best exhibition, to B. V. French, the Society's

Plate, ...... $25 00

For the second best, to J. L. L. F. Warren, the Appleton

Silver Gilt Medal, 10 00

For the third best, to E. M. Richards, . . . . 5 00

Pears. — For the best exhibition, to M. P. Wilder, the Lyman Plate, 25 00
For the second best, to Samuel Walker, the Lowell Silver Gilt
Medal, .......

For the third best, to Josiah Lovett, a premium of
Grapes. — For the best exhibited, three varieties, two bunches each,
to Thomas Needham, the Lyman Plate,
For the next best, to Messrs. Hovey & Co.,
For the next best, to Wellwood Young,
Assorted Fruit. — For the best basket of Fruit, of various kinds,
to Otis Johnson, ......

For the next best, to William Quant, ....

For the next best, to Azell Bowditch, ....

For the best dish of Apples, not less than 12 specimens of one
variety, to J. L, L. F. Warren. ....

For the second best, to John Owen, ....

For the best dish of Pears, not less than 12 specimens of one
variety, to Samuel Pond, .....

For the next best, to Henry Vandine, ....

Premiums during the Season.
Apples. — For the best Summer Apples, on or before the 1st of Sep-
tember, to E. M. Richards, . . . . . 6 00

For the next best, to John Hovey, . . . . 4 00

For the best Fall Apples, on or before the 1st of December, to

Edward M. Richards, . . . . . 6 00

For the next best, to Ebenezer Wight, . . . . 4 00

For the best Winter Apples, on or before the 1st of March, to
Edward M. Richards, . . . . . 6 00

For the next best, no premium awarded.
Pears. — For the best collection of new Pears, not exhibited before
this year, to Marshall P. Wilder, the Society's Silver Gilt
Medal, . . . . . . . 15 00

For the next best, to Messrs. Hovey & Co., . . . 10 00

For the best Summer Pears, on or before the 1st of September,

no premium awarded.
For the best Fall Pears, on or before the 1st of December, to
George Newhall, ......

For the next best, to Josiah Stickney, . . . •

For the best Winter Pears, on or before the 1st of December,

to John Gordon, ......

For the next best, to Edward M. Richards,

92 MassacJnisetts Horticultural Society.

Cherries. — For the best specimens, not less than two quarts, to

Otis Johnson, . . . . . , $6 00

For the next best, to Samuel Walker, . . . . 4 00

Peaches. — For the best specimens grown under glass, to William

Quant, . . . . . . . 6 00

For the next best, to F. W. Macondry, . . . 4 00

For the best specimen grown in open culture, to F. W. Macondry, 6 00
For the next best, to Galen Merriam, . . . . 4 00

Apricots. — No premiums awarded.

Nectarines. — For the best specimen, to William Quant, . . 6 00

For the second best, to John Fisk Allen, . . . 4 00

Quinces. — For the best specimens of the best kinds, to John

Washburn, . . . . . . . 5 00

For the second best, to Samuel Pond, . . . . 3 00

Plums. — For the best Plums, of the best flavor, not less than two

quarts, to S. R. Johnson, . . . . . 6 00

For the next best, to J. L. L. F. Warren, . . . 3 00

Gooseberries. — For the best flavored, and finest specimens, two

boxes, to Josiah Lovett, . . . . . 5 00

For the second best, to John Hovey, . . . . 3 00

Currants. — For the best flavored and finest specimens, two boxes,

to George Wilson, . . . . . . 5 00

For the second best, to Otis Johnson, . . . . 3 00

Raspberries. — For the best specimens of Raspberries, not less

than two boxes, to Josiah Lovett, . . . . 5 00

For the second best, to Messrs. Hovey & Co., . . . 3 00

Strawberries. — For the best specimens of Strawberries, not less

than two boxes, to Josiah Richardson, for Hovey's Seedling, 6 00
For the second best, to Augustus Aspinwall, for Hovey's

Seedling, . . . . . . . 4 00

For the third best, to Isaac Fay, for Hovey's Seedling, . 3 00

Water Melon. — No premiums awarded.

Musk Melon. — For the best Musk Melon, to Edward 1\I. Richards, 5 00

For the second best, to William Quant, . . • 3 00

Figs. — For the best specimen of Figs, to John Fisk Allen, . 5 00

For the second best, to Nahum Stetson, . . . 3 00

Grapes. — For the best specimens and best varieties of Grapes,

grown under glass, previous to July 1st, to John Fisk Allen, 10 00
For the second best, to William Quant, . . . 7 00

For the best varieties and specimens of Grapes, grown under

glass, subsequently to July 1st, to Thomas Needham,
For the second best, to Azell Bowditch,
Grapes, {Native.) — For the best specimen and variety of Native
Grapes, to Kendall Bailey, .....

For the second best, to Charles E. Grant,

Massachusetts Horticulim-al Society. 93

Gratuities.

To John Donald, gardener to Horace Gray, of Brighton, for fine

Grapes exhibited at the Annual Exhibition, a gratuity of $10 00

To Ralph Crooker, of Roxbury, for fine specimens of Van Mons
Leon Le Clerc Pears, exhibited at the Annual Exhibition, a
gratuity of . . . . . . . 5 00

To George Hyde, for a seedling Cherry, a gratuity of . . 6 00

To Josiah Lovett, for fine specimens of Blackberries, a gratuity of 5 00

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON VEGETABLES,

AWARDING PREMIUMS FOR 1847.

Asparagus. — For the earliest and best, to William Quant, . $ 5 00

Beets. — For the best pure blood beets through the season, to A. D.

Williams, . . . , . • . 5 00

Beams. — For the best and earliest peck of string beans, to Jas. Nu-
gent, . . . . . . .

For the best and earliest Lima beans, to Azell Bowditch,
Cucumbers. — For the best pair under glass, to Thomas Needham,

For the second best, to Wm. Quant.
Corn. — For the best and earliest sweet, to A. D. Williams,
Cabbage. — For the best drumhead, during the season, to F. W
Macondry, ......

For the best Savoy, during the season, to A. D. Williams,
Lettuce. — For the best six heads, to A. D.Williams,
Potatoes. — For the best and earliest peck, to A. D. Williams,
Rhubarb. — For the largest and best, to Josiah Lovett,
Squashes. — For the best pure Canada, to A. D. Williams,
Tomatoes. — For the best and earliest, to A. D. Williams, .
Vegetables. — For the best display and greatest variety at the

weekly exhibitions, to A. D. Williams, . . . 10 00

For the best display and greatest variety at the annual exhibi-
tion, to F. W. Macondry, ....

For the second best, to A. D. Williams, . ,

5 00

Gratuities.

To D. Brims, for blanched celery, .....

To Wm. Bogle, for Scotch kale, .....

To S. Reed, for a bushel of very fine seedling potatoes.

To R. Waterman, Warwick, R. L, for a bushel of early June pota-
toes, ......••

To S. W. Cole, for thirty varieties of potatoes, among them several

superior seedlings, . . . . • . 10 00

To Josiah Newhall, for a fine display of peppers, . . .3 00

7 00

94 Answers to Correspondents.

January \st, 1848. — The stated quarterly meeting of the Society was
held to-day, — the President in the chair.

A Committee of arrangements for the next annual meeting of the Soci-
ety was chosen agreeably to the by-laws. Messrs. Walker, Lovett, and
Richards, were appointed a Committee from the chair, to nominate thirteen
members, and the following persons were elected : —

Joseph Breck, Chairman ; Samuel Walker, Aaron D. Williams, Jr.,
F. W. Macondry, Otis Johnson, J. S. Cabot, J. Lovett, J. F. Allen, David
Haggerston, P. B. Hovey, Jr., E. Wight, William Quant, Parker Barnes.

The Chairman of the Executive Committee submitted a list of premiums
for the year 1848. But the rules and regulations requiring some altera-
tion, it was recommitted, to be reported at the next meeting.

The Treasurer was requested to ascertain who had been awarded med-
als, and to have the same prepared for the recipients.

Abel Moore, Concord, and Wm. Bogle, Melrose, were admitted members.

Art. IV". Answers to Correspondents.

Epifhyllum (Cactus) Russellianvm. R. — Will some one detail any pro-
cess for the successful treatment of this species, in order to ensure a good
bloom? It is liable to denticulate, or disjoint, in some kinds of culture, as
also to drop its buds when partially grown.

We have found the same defect in its general treatment. Its culture
does not appear to be well understood ; for we have rarely seen handsome
specimens. We suspect that it requires rather a higher temperature, and
damper atmosphere, than the ordinary greenhouse will afford. In our stove,
over a dry flue, it often drops its buds ; but, in a more humid part of the
house, it blooms well. Mr. Gardner, we believe, found it growing in damp
shady woods in Brazil, which would indicate the treatment we have recom-
mended, (Vol. VI. p. 100.)

Ahidilon striatum. R. — How should this be treated that it may open all
its buds 1 —

We have not found any difficulty in blooming this showy plant ; and we
suspect, if sufficient pot room is given it, and a liberal supply, of water, it
will flower freely. If any of our correspondents have found the same trouble
as i?, and can give any information upon the subject, we shall be glad to
receive it.

Best Dahlias. X. — A list of all the best varieties exhibited in Eng-
land, the last autumn, will be found in our last volume, (XIII. p. 547,) to
which we would refer for full information. Twelve of the best show flow-
ers are : — Beeswing, Marchioness of Cornwallis, Lady of the Lake, Cleo-
patra, Arethusa, Essex Triumph, Captivation, Yellow Standard, Master
G. Clayton, Roi de Pointelles, Pantaloon, and Viscount Ressegneur.

Horticultural Memoranda. 95

Best Azaleas. D. — This family of plants has been greatly augmented
by many beautiful new varieties, several of which are of American origin,
and vie with the foreign kinds. The following are twelve sorts desirable in
every good collection : — speciosa, Leucomegestre, Copei?', Remingtoni Tri-
umphans, Gledstanesu, variegata, speciosissima, fulgens, coronata, Triiim-
phans sup6rba, and Watsonza.

Pelargoniums. An Exhibitor. — Twelve of the finest show flowers are :
Aurora, crimson ; Arabella, rose, white centre ; Rosy circle, rose ; Mustee,
maroon ; Pearl, white ; Orion, dark; Desdemona, dark and light ; Isabella,
Hebe's Lip, Competitor, Favorita, and Celestial.

HORTICULTURAL MEMORANDA

FOR FEBRUARY.

FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines will soon begin to require attention : in greenhouses, they
will begin to swell their eyes about the 20th of the month, and, in gra-
peries, they will also begin to push. As soon as this is perceived, the shoots
should be very carefully loosened from the place where they have been laid
in, and tied loosely up to the trellis. If this is delayed, the operation may
be attended with the breakage of some of the eyes. After they are tied to
the trellis, they should be syringed, every fair day, both morning and even-
ing, as this greatly assists them in breaking evenly. Should they show a
tendency to break only towards the top, that part of the shoot should be
bent down, and a small stone, or light weight of some kind, attached to it, to
keep it in place. The eyes will then break freely at the base, and the
shoot can be gradually brought up to its place.

Fig trees will now begin to break, and will require occasional syringing :
if they require it, now will be a favorable time to repot the plants.

Peach trees may be brought into the greenhouss for a succession crop.

Scions of fruit trees may be cut any time this month.

Pruning orchards may be attended to now, where there is much to be
done, as other operations next month will leave less time to do it properly.

Root grafting may be done now, in the manner recommended in our last
volume, p. 312.

FLOWER DEPARTMENT.

Pelargoniums will now begin to make their new growth : if they have not
been shifted into their proper sized pot"?, this should be attended to im-
mediately,— that is, if fine, showy, well-shaped plants are desired. Attend
to training out the shoots carefully, bending them litile at a time, if they
are stout and unyielding, until they are brought down to their proper place :
nip off any very strong shoots, so as to keep a well-balanced head. Syringe
occasionally, and water tolerably freely. Place the plants as near the light
and air as possible. Fumigato directly as the green fly appears.

96 Horticultural Memoranda.

Azaleas will now begin to open their flower buds, and vviU require a more
liberal supply of water. If it is an object to raise seedlings, now is the
time to attend to the impregnation of the flowers.

Camellias will now be in full bloom, and will soon commence their spring
growth. As soon as this is perceived, they should be watered more freely
at the root, occasionally giving liquid manure or guano, and the foliage
should be freely syringed in good weather. Attend to the impregnation of
flowers for seed. Inarching and grafting may also be done now with suc-
cess.

Japan lilies. — We have so fully treated upon these in our last number,
that it is unnecessary to enlarge upon them now. Potting should now be
attended to with all those which have not yet been done. Water freely
when they have attained the height of a foot.

Achimenes of all the various kinds should be brought forward now : place
them in the warmest part of the house, and pot off in very light heath soil,
leaf mould, and sand.

Gloxinias and Gesneras should also be brought forward for a succession.

Dahlias, wanted for very early flowering, or for propagation, should now
be potted.

Verbenas should now be repotted, if fine blooming plants are wanted ; and,
for a spring stock, cuttings should be put in.

Schizanthuses and Nemophilas will require potting again.

Heliotropes should be repotted, and cuttings should be put in for a sum-
mer stock.

Pceonies will now begin to break, and should have a good place upon the
stage.

Jxias, Sparaxis, <5fc. will now begin to flower, and should be liberally
supplied with water.

Roses will soon be in full bloom : water liberally, using liquid guano oc-
casionally, syringe often, and fumigate to destroy the aphis.

Pansy, and Ten-week Stock seed, for early flowermg, should be planted
now.

Cactuses should now be more liberally watered.

Fuchsias will now begin to grow, and the plants should be well headed
in, or cut completely down : repot, shaking off the old soil, and syringe
freely till they are in full leaf.

Petunias will require potting again.

Ab-utilons should be propagated now for a new stock of young and vig-
orous plants.

Anemone japonica should be repotted now.

Plants in frames should be well aired in good weather.

VEGETABLE DEPARTMENT.

Hotbeds should now be put into operation, if it is desirable to raise any
early kind of vegetables. If the bed is immediately made up, the seeds
may be planted by the middle of the month.

Cucumbers, Egg Plants, Tomatoes, Celery, Cauliflowers, Broccoli, Cab-
bages, <ifc., should be sown in drills or in pots.

THE MAGAZINE

O F

HORTICULTURE.

MARCH, 1848.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. Rules of ^^ American^ ^ Pomology adopted by the
Massachusetts Horticultural Society ; with Remarks upon
the saine. By the Editor.

In our last two numbers, we have promised our readers our
views upon the subject which has, of late, attracted some con-
siderable attention among pomologists, viz., the Rules of
"American" Pomology, as adopted by the Massachusetts
Horticultural Society, and also by some other societies and
associations, both horticultural and agricultural, in various
parts of the country ; but, nearly in every instance, with some
variation, and, in several, with such important ones, as to
give them but very few features in common : of the latter
character, are those adopted by the New York State Agricul-
tural Society, which will be found at p. 67, and by the Horti-
cultural Societies of Albany, Rochester, Buffalo, «fec. But it
is of the rules for American pomology, adopted by the society
first named, that we shall now speak, and discuss their pro-
priety and utility, so far as they are designed to aid in the
great object for which they were undoubtedly intended, viz.,
the prevention of the accumulation of synonymes, and the
spread of inferior varieties of fruit. These, at least, we take
to be the objects of the rules which have been enacted.

The whole matter has had our most careful consideration,
and we have deferred it from our last for the sole purpose of
bringing it before cultivators in such a manner as to engage
their attention, and show the importance of thorough reflec-
tion before enacting any rules of such an arbitrary character
as will not be adopted by all pomologists. and thus the very

VOL. XIV. — NO. III. 9

98 Rules for ^'-American.' Pomology

object, for which it is supposed they were brought forward,
wholly defeated. If our views are unsound, our columns are
open to their free and full discussion.

The first rules or suggestions for a uniform nomenclature
appeared in our volume for 1846, (XII. p. 53,) by our corre-
spondent, Mr. Humrickhouse, and they appear to form the
basis of those which have been recently adopted. We may
therefore claim some credit for having awakened attention to
this important subject.

There is something hackneyed in the expression "American"
pomology, which is not in good taste, to say the least. We
have heard much of an "American" literature, but we sup-
posed that Science was universal, and that there was nothing
more peculiar to the science of pomology in this country, than
to that of botany, or any other science. We are not aware
that our botanists have found it necessary to adopt rules for
" American" botany, but supposed they were well satisfied
with its principles as first taught by Linnaeus. So, too, of
pomology. One would imagine, from what has been said
by some individuals, that pomology is something which had
just originated, and that it needed the fostering care of our
horticultural societies to fully establish it. Those who enter-
tain this idea can be but little conversant with the efforts of
the French and German authors, who have written upon the
subject. It is unnecessary, however, for us to occupy space
in discussing the want of good taste in attaching the word
American: the New York State Agricultural Society, with
more enlarged views, discard it entirely.

We now come to the rules, and. in order to be fully under-
stood, we shall take them up separately : —

RULES OF AMERICAN POMOLOGY.

I. No new seedling fruit shall be entitled to a name, or to 'pomological
recommendation, which is not at least equal, if not superior, to any similar
varieties of the first rank already known ; or which, if only of second rate
flavor, is so decidedly superior, in vigor, in hardiness, or productiveness, to
varieties of the same character already known, as to render it well worthy
of cultivation.

Nothing can be more absurd than the first line of this rule,
viz., " that no new seedling fruit shall be entitled to a name."

adopted by the Mass. Hort. Soc, loith Remarks. 99

No societies, nor individuals, can prevent any person who may
originate a fruit, from giving it a name, whether good or poor : it
might as well be said that no parent should name his own
child. The other part of the rule, that no fruit should be en-
titled to recommendation, is all very well.

II. The originator, first grower, or he who first makes known a new
native variety of merit, shall be entitled to suggest a name for such variety,
which name, if a suitable one, (i. e. coming within the rules of nomencla-
ture,) shall be adopted by the writer describing the fruit for the first time.
But if the name proposed is inappropriate, or does not come within the
rules, then the describer shall be at liberty to give a name.

Here, certainly, is a rule at variance with all the conven-
tional rules of science, and, in order that we may be fully
understood, we quote the following from Sir J. E. Smith's
Introduction to Botany , in regard to the principles of nomen-
clature : —

" Before I conclude the subject of nomenclature, I beg leave
to offer a few reflections on changes of established names. It
is generally agreed among mankind, that names of countries,
places, or things, sanctioned by general use, should be sacred;
and the study of natural history is, from the multitude of
objects with which it is conversant, necessarily so encum-
bered with names, that students require every possible assist-
ance to facilitate the attainment of those names, and have a
just right to complain of every needless impediment. The
grateful Hollanders named the island of Mauritius after the
hero who had established their liberty and prosperity ; and it
ill became the French, at that period dead to such feelings, to
change it, when in their power, to Isle de France^ by which
we have, in some late botanical works, the barbarous Latin
oi Insula Francics. Nor is it allowable to alter such names,
even for the better. Americo Vespucci had no very great
pretensions to give his own name to a quarter of the world,
yet it is scarcely probable that Columbia will ever supersede
America. In our science, the names established throughout
the works of Linnaeus are become current coin, nor can they
be altered without great inconvenience. Perhaps, if he had
foreseen the future authority and popularity of his writings,
he might himself have improved upon many which he adopt-

100 Rules for ^^ American^ ^ Pomology

ed out of deference to his predecessors, and it is, in some cases,
to be regretted that he has not sufficiently done so. In hke
manner, the few great leaders in natural knowledge must and
will be allowed to ward off and to correct, from time to time,
all that may deform or enfeeble the prevailing system. They
must choose between names nearly of the same date, and even
between good and bad ones of any date.* A botanist who,
by the strength of his own superior knowledge and authority,
reforms and elucidates a whole tribe of plants hitherto in con-
fusion, as a Hedwig in Mosses, or Acharius in Lichens, ought
to be unshackled in every point in which he can be of service.
His wisdom will be evinced by extreme caution and reserve,
in using this liberty with respect to new names, but more
especially new terms ; and, after all, he will be amenable to
the general tribunal of botanists, and the judgment of those
who come after him. Few, indeed, are illustrious enough to
claim such privileges as these. Those who alter names, often
for the worse, according to arbitrary rules of their own, or in
order to aim at consequence which they cannot otherwise
attain, are best treated with silent neglect. The system
should not be encumbered with such names, even as syno-
nyms."

This is sufficiently explicit to show the principles which
should govern all pomologists in naming fruits ; but, in order
to show the impropriety of a portion of the second Rule, we
will instance the following : —

Suppose an individual to originate a new seedling fruit,
and to give it a name ; and suppose he did not deem it nec-
essary to give a full description of it to any pomological au-
thor ; we shall still further suppose that, as a nurseryman, he
sells his trees to various persons in all parts of the country,
under his favorite name : after a while, some one who pur-
chases and raises the fruit, sends a specimen to some soci-
ety, or editor of some horticultural paper, to be named and
described ; the society or editor, knowing nothing of its origin,
give it a name of their own, because, according to the rule.

* I cannot but wish the very eminent Prof. De Candolle had assumed this privi-
lege, so justly his due, in order to do good instead of mischief to the nomenclature of
botany. But, with him, priority of date regulates every thing.

adopted by the Mass. Hort. Soc, loith Remarks. 101

they have the right to do so ; and, being first published, it
also becomes the name. Is it supposed that those who origi-
nate new and fine fruits have so little pride, that they will
consent to this ? Certainly not ; and thus commences the
accumulation of synonymes.

III. No new native fruit shall be considered as named until the same has
been accurately described, in pomological terras, by some competent person
conversant with existing varieties, some pomologist of reputation, or the
standing fruit committee of some established horticultural society.

This is entirely superfluous ; to say that no fruit can be
considered as named until described by some "competent"
person, or by the committee of some horticultural society, is
equally as absurd as the preceding: there might be some
doubt as to who are " competent persons" or " pomologists of
reputation." It is enough that the name of a fruit is even
published with the most brief account oi \i, to establish its
name.

IV. The description shall embrace the following particulars : 1st. The
form and exterior color, the texture and color of the flesh, and the flavor of
the fruit, with the addition, in stone fruits, of the size of the stone, adher-
ence or non-adherence of the flesh, form of the suture, and the hollow at the
stem ; and, in kernel fruits, of the size of the core and seeds, the length,
position and insertion of the stalk, and form of the eye. In peaches, the
form of the leaf-glands and size of blossoms ; in grapes, the form of the
bunches ; and, in strawberries, the character of the blossoms, whether stam-
inate or pistillate ; and also, where there is any marked character in the
foliage, growth of the young wood, or bearing tree, the same shall be given.

There is no objection to this.

V. The name of the new variety shall not be considered as established
until the description shall have been published in at least one horticultural
or one agricultural journal, having the largest circulation in the country, or
some pomological work of large circulation and acknowledged standard
character.

By Rule No. III., we have seen that no fruit could be named
unless described by some "competent person" &c. ; and now
we learn that the name shall not be considered as established
unless published in a journal of the largest circulation
in the country, &c. ! Truly this is the climax of absurdity.
9*

102 Rules for '^ Amerlca?i'^ Pomology

According to this rule, a fruit may be described in one horti-
cultural paper ; but, if the editor of another finds, after much
search, that his circulation is larger, he can rename it ; and,
if a third finds his is larger still, he can give it another title.
So, too, of some pomological work of " acknowledged stand-
ard character." What can this mean? Are there any treati-
ses upon fruit, which, describing a new variety for the first
time, any individual will undertake to say, do not possess suf-
ficient character to establish its name ? Why, then, the pe-
culiar and incomprehensible wording of this rule ? Nothing
more was required than to say that whatever name was
adopted should be immediately made public.

VI. In giving names to newly originated varieties, all harsh, vulgar, or
inelegant names shall be avoided, such as " Sheepnose," " Hogpen," etc.

VII. No new names shall be given, which consist of more than two words,
excepting only when the originator's name is added.

[Thus all unnecessarily long titles, such as " New Large Black Bigar-
reau," " Beurr6 gris d'hiver nouveau," will be avoided.]

VIII. Characteristic names, or those in some way descriptive of the qual-
ities, origin, or habit of fruit or tree, shall be preferred. They may be
either of intrinsic properties, as "Golden Sweeting," " Downer's Late,"
etc.; or of local origin, as " Newtown Pippin," " Hudson Gage ;" of the
season of ripening, as " Early Scarlet," " Frost Gage ;" of the form of the
color, as "Golden Drop," " Blue Pearmain ;" or which commemorate a
particular era, place, or person, as " Tippecanoe," " La Grange," " Bald-
win," or any other titles which may be significantly applied.

IX. All superfluous terms shall be avoided ; thus, instead of" Thompson's
Seedling Beurre," it is better to say "Thompson's Beurr6," or simply
"Thompson's Pear."

All these are quite superfluous ; and they affect a pedantic
air, which would lead one to suppose that horticulturists were
so ignorant as to be unable to select euphonious or appropriate
names. The New York State Society, with more respect for
the intelligence of cultivators, has struck them all out.

X. Before giving a name to a new fruit, its qualities should be decided
by at least two seasons' experience.

This rule is all very well, because it is in the shape of ad-
vice. "No fruit should be, &c." If made imperatively, it
Avould be wholly objectionable.

adopted hy the Mass. Hort. Soc, with Remarks. 103

XI. "When two persons have named or described a new native fruit, then
the name and description first published, if according to the rules herein in-
dicated, shall have the priority.

Leaving out the words " if according to the rules herein in-
dicated," this is the only important rule among the whole
thirteen, for it advocates priority.

XII. No person, introducing new fruits from abroad, shall be allowed to
re-christen the same, or give them his own name ; but shall submit the
same to some competent pomologist to ascertain the true name.

. This rule has nothing very objectionable. But it does not
express its object in a very perspicuous manner.

XIII. In deciding the names of fruits already described, the latest edi-
tion of the " Catalogue of the London Horticultural Society" shall be con-
sidered the standard European authority, and the latest edition of Down-
ing's " Fruits and Fruit Trees of America" the standard American author-
ity.

This rule is of some import. It adopts, for standard au-
thority, two pomological works, and makes it imperative that
all names shall be referred to these authorities. We have
heretofore given our opinion in relation to the standard char-
acter of the Cataloo-ue of the Lond. Hort. Soc, and have, in
most instances, been governed by it, as our readers well know :
but, where known and palpable errors occur, we have not been
so prejudiced, or blind to the interests of pomology, as to adopt
them. Our correspondent, Mr. Humrickhouse, in the article
before referred to, has expressed our views so fully on this
point, that we quote his words : —

" A few have had recourse to the authority of the London
Horticultural Society. No authority, merely as such, is bet-
ter. As worthy co-laborers in the work, none have gone be-
yond, or contributed more " to bring order out of confusion"
in the arrangement of the nomenclature of fruits. Their suc-
cess is hailed with satisfaction, and their decisions are re-
ceived with deference. In most cases, and until the contrary
is shewn, we need not hesitate in adopting them ; in some,
the weight of testimony in the opposing scale may oblige us
to reject them."

104 Rules for ^^ American" Pomology

So far, therefore, as it was necessary to choose any author-
ity, none could be better than the London Horticultural Soci-
ety's Catalogue ; because the means which have been used to
arrive at the results have been the only ones which can claim
any respect or consideration, viz., actual inspection and com-
parison of the fruits. Yet it should not be obligatory to strictly
follow it. On the other hand, however, this rule adopts, for
a standard American authority, a work which cannot be
looked upon in any such light ; for, probably, not one quarter
of the fruits have been subjected to careful inspection and
comparison. Hence, the impropriety of adopting such, espe-
cially when it is well known that no American author has
ever done half so much towards creating confusion in our
nomenclature,by attempting to re-name our well-known fruits :
all the conventional rules of science have been entirely
disregarded ; and, to say nothing of the great confusion of
synonymes, we have upwards of a dozen well-known fruits,
which have been re-christened. If every pomological author
were to take the same liberty, there would be no hope of
arriving at a correct nomenclature. To make it imperative
to follow any such authority, is only to increase instead of les-
sening the confusion already existing.

We have thus, in as brief a manner as possible, presented
our objections to the Rules which have been adopted. We have
stated that we believe there is no necessity of but a very few
plain and concise rules, not adopting any thing new, but
merely reasserting those which have always obtained, and
something of this kind, in conclusion, we shall attempt.

We are inclined to believe that some of our horticultural
societies, in the zeal which animates some of their members,
have erroneous views of the objects of such associations. We
had always supposed they were to encourage skill in cultiva-
tion, and to make known new varieties of fruits, flowers, and
vegetables, by the award of liberal premiums for superior
specimens; — not to say what fruit shall have a name, and what
shall not ; — not to say that all descriptions of fruits shall be
made by pomologists, or fruit committees of the respective
societies ; — not that no fruit shall be considered as named un-
less the name be published in some journal having the largest
circulation ; — these are all subjects quite beyond their prov-
ince and control.

adopted by the Mass. Hort. Soc, loith Remarks. 105

The London Horticultural Society's Catalogue is adopted
as a standard authority. With such a respect for the labors of
this society, why should not that correct principle, which has
always governed the institution, ever since its formation, be
also adopted 1 It is expressly stated, in the preface to all the
Transactions of the Society, (eight large quarto volumes,)
that, upon "no question, as a body, will the society express
AN OPINION," This is thoroughly carried out. Every article
in the Transactions has the signature of the writer, and,
whether correct or not, he alone is answerable for it. The
value of this principle is best attested by the harmony and
good feeling which has always prevailed, in the hearty coop-
eration of all the members, and in the success which has
attended the efforts of the Society in promoting the cause of
horticultural improvement.

There are other considerations which we should like to urge,
had we not already exceeded our allotted space. But these
we must omit till another time : as fully elucidating our own
views, we would invite the careful perusal of Mr. Humrick-
house's article, (XII. p. 47.)

We have already remarked, that there was no necessity of
any 7iew rules for Pomological science. If it was important to
reassert the principles which have always prevailed, then per-
haps, they might with propriety be introduced at this time.
But it is of the utmost consequence, that they should be such
as will unite the cooperation of every intelligent cultivator in
the country. Nothing less than this, will be of any purpose,
but rather a hindrance in attaining the much desired object.
If one society adopt one set of rules, and another a second ;
and if influential nurserymen will not move in concert with
these societies, it will only make confusion worse confounded.

We have, therefore, drawn up what we conceive to be a set
of rules, which can be universally adopted, and attain all the
objects desired. Pomologists will be amenable for all viola-
tions of conventional rules, in regard to names, and our horti-
cultural societies, acting within their appropriate sphere, can
recommend only those fruits which in their opinion appear
worthy of cultivation. No synonymes will then find a place
in horticultural or agricultural journals, or in pomological
works, or in respectable catalogues ; and if they are not found

106 Rules for '■^ American^'' Pomology, S/'c.

in any of these, there is httle fear that they will impede the at-
tainment of that sreat desideratum, a correct nomenclature.

RULES FOR A UNIFORM NOMENCLATURE OF FRUITS.

I. No new seedling fruit shall be recommended for general
cultivation, which is not at least equal, if not superior, to any
similar varieties of the first quality already known; or which,
if only of second rate flavor, shall possess such characteristics
of vigor, hardiness, productiveness, or adaptation to various
soils, or which may have been found of such superior excel-
lence in particular regions, as to render it wortliy of cultiva-
tion.

II. The discoverer or originator of a new fruit, is always
at liberty to give a name ; but if he prefer or desire it, he
may refer it to some horticultural society, or to some pomolo-
gist for that purpose ; and this name should be adopted by the
writer describing the fruit for the first time, and be considered
as established; — provided that the name is made public,
either by publication in some horticultural or agricultural
journal, or some pomological work. Well known local names
of old fruits, newly introduced, should always be retained.

III. Priority of date shall always decide the name of a
new fruit when described by two persons; and the authority
should always accompany the name, in all pomological works,
or horticultural journals, devoted to the interests of the sci •
ence.

IV. Descriptions of fruits should embrace the following
particulars : — The size, form, and exterior color ; the texture
and color of the flesh ; the flavor and time of ripening of the
fruit, with the addition, in stone fruits, of the size of the
stone, adherence or non-adherence of the flesh, form of the
suture, and the hollow at the stem ; and, in kernel fruits,
of the size of the core and seeds, the length, position, and in-
sertion of the stalk, and form of the eye. In peaches, the
form of the leaf, glands, and size of the blossoms. In grapes,
the form of the bunches, and, in strawberries, the character of
the blossoms, whether staminate or pistillate, and also, where
there is any marked character in the foliage, growth of the
young wood or bearing tree, the same shall be given.

Grafting Grape Vines. 107

V. Before naming a fruit, its qualities should be decided
by at least two seasons' experience ; and no new fruit can be
safely recommended for general cultivation until the same has
been tested and found valuable in more than one locality.

Art. II. Grafting Graj)e Vines. By Alexander Marshall,
Esq., West Chester, Pa.

The cultivation of the grape is becoming very extensive as
an article for the market, as well as for consumption by those
who grow them ; and one which cannot be too highly prized
as a delicious and wholesome fruit. Almost every one loves
to eat a plate full of good grapes, but very few know how to
cultivate them, and fewer still know what varieties to select
as best suited to the soil and climate of their particular loca-
tion. So that, after having reared a few vines to a proper
bearing age, they are disappointed in the crop by having been
unfortunate in their selection. They thus become disheart-
ened, and suffer the vines on which they have bestowed so
much attention, and watched with so much solicitude, to per-
ish for want of the very treatment that would make them
productive of good fruit. To such I would say. Cheer up ;
those vines are very valuable; their variety can soon be
changed by the process of grafting.

If the reader will have a little patience, I will give him my
experience on this subject. Some years ago, I planted a vine-
yard, and, to make the variety as extensive as possible, hav-
ing a strong partiality for native plants and fruits, selected
cuttings from many wild varieties on the neighboring hills
and in the surrounding valleys. After bestowing a great deal
of labor and attention on them for several years, I found that
they would not meet my expectations as fruit-bearing vines,
and concluded to try the experiment of grafting them. Hav-
ing prepared myself with scions for the purpose, I commenced
one morning, about the last of March, by removing the soil
from the vine to the depth of five or six inches ; sawed off the

108 Pomological Notices.

vine about two inches below the surface ; smoothed the end
of the stump with a sharp knife — spht the stump in the centre
with a chisel — cut the butt end of the graft in the shape of a
wedge, so that the first bud would come on, or immediately
above, the shoulder of the stump, leaving but two buds on the
graft, one of which would come above the surface of the
ground. The stumps being from an inch to an inch and a
quarter in diameter, I put two grafts in each stump, one in
each side, with the outside bark to coincide with that of the
stump — covered the top and cleft sides of the stump with
grafting wax (made of beeswax, rosin and tallow) so as to
prevent the bleeding of the sap — replaced the soil carefully
around and over the stump, covering the first bud and leaving
one only above the surface, and marked the place with a
stake to prevent accident. I used no matting or tying of any
kind, the stump being strong enough to hold the grafts.

I thus grafted one hundred and twenty vines the same day.
It so happened that when the grafts were set in the last
twenty stumps, and the wax adjusted, ready for replacing the
soil, I was called from the field for some purpose, and the soil
was not replaced about the stumps for two or three days.
Now mark the difference occasioned by so slight an accident.
Of the first hundred, not more than four or five missed grow-
ing— of the last twenty, full one half missed. The grafts that
grew, did well, and the next year produced a crop of fine
Cataivha Grapes.

I have since grafted grape vines the same way, and with
equal success, always being careful to replace the soil imme-
diately.

West Chester, Pa., Feb. 1848.

Art. III. Pomological Notices ; or, Notices respecting New
and Superior Fruits, worthy of General Cultivation. By
the Editor.

In our last volume, (XIII. pp. 112, 448,) we noticed sev-
eral new pears, peaches, grapes, and apples, and some of the

Neio Varieties of Pears. 109

varieties were subsequently fully described and figured in the
same volume.

Quite a number of new fruits have been brought to notice
the last two years, the greater portion of which we have al-
ready given some account of; but there are others of consid-
erable reputation which we have not found the opportunity
to mention, and which we now shall briefly describe.

PEARS.

Westcott. — This is a new variety, a native of Rhode Island,
growing in Cranston, and recently brought to notice. Speci-
mens were exhibited at the last annual meeting of the R. I.
Hort. Soc. It is of medium size, roundish obovate form, with
a green skin, becoming yellow when mature. Flesh white,
melting and juicy, with a rich saccharine flavor. It ripens
in September.

Abbott. — Another Rhode Island pear, produced from seed
in Providence, in the garden of Mrs. Thomas Abbott. It is
of medium size, and oblong obovate form, with a dull green
skin, considerably marked with bright red. Flesh melting
and juicy, with a sugary, brisk, and fine flavor. Ripe in
September.

Shurtleff^s Seedling. — A new pear, raised by Dr. S. A. Shurt-
leflf, in Boston, several years ago, and the parent tree removed to
Roxbury, where he now resides. It is a very good pear, having
something of the character of the Gansell's Bergamot, and re-
sembling it in shape and size. The skin is of a light yellow, deep-
ly tinged with red on the sunny side. Flesh melting and juicy,
with a saccharine, brisk, and fine flavor. Ripe in September.

Totteri's Seedling. — A New Haven pear, raised by Col.
Totten, of that city. A few specimens, kindly presented to
us by Mr. S. D. Pardee, of the same place, were of such
promising quality as to render it deserving of notice. It is
of medium size and obovate form, with a rich yellow skin
slightly tinged with red in the sun. Flesh fine, melting, and
juicy, with a rich, sweet, perfumed, and excellent flavor.
Ripe in September and October.

Belle Apres Noel. — A new Belgian pear, of the first class,
which fruited in our collection last season for the first time in

VOL. XIV. — NO. III. 10

110 Pomological Notices.

the country. It is of large size, and handsome, obovate form,
with a yellow skin and a brilliant crimson cheek : the flesh is
yellowish, melting and juicy, with a rich, perfumed, and deli-
cious flavor. Ripe in December. This will, we trust, prove
to be a great addition to our winter pears.

St. Dorothee — A new variety received from France, and
fruited here for the first time last year. We have already
alluded to it in our visit to the nursery of M. Jamin, (XI. p. 205,)
as the St. Dorety. It is of good size, with a dull green skin,
somewhat traced with russet. The flesh is remarkably melt-
ing and juicy, with a saccharine, sprightly, and highly perfumed
flavor. It ripens in October. So far as we may judge from
the few specimens we had on our tree, we should esteem it
one of our best autumn pears.

Excellentisshna. — New, from France. A very large, hand-
some, and excellent pear, nearly six inches long. The skin
yellow, richly tinted with crimson on the sunny side : flesh
yellowish, melting and juicy, with a sugary and delicious flavor.
Ripe in November, about the same season as Van Mons Leon
le Clerc.

Ferdinand de Meester. — A variety received from France
under this name proved to be very superior fruit : of medium
size, and obovate form, with yellowish green skin, and a
rich and musky flavor, perhaps too much perfumed for some
tastes. Ripe in October. We apprehend the Rousselette de
Meester will be found a synonyme of this.

Beurre, Gris d^hiver nouveau. — A new and decidedly val-
uable acquisition to our late pears ; possessing qualities sim-
ilar to the old Brown Beurre, but less acid, and fully as high-
flavored. It also ripens freely, and the skin is of a rich cin-
namon russet. Season, December to February.

Colmar d^ Ar ember g. — Since our brief notice of this pear in
our last volume, (XIII. p. 188,) we have had it in fruit in
our collection, and have also made a description from some
splendid specimens received from N. Stetson, Esq., of Bridge-
water. We consider it a most desirable acquisition ; of the
largest size, and ripening at a desirable season. Though not
quite first rate, when compared with the Beurre d'Aremberg,
or Passe Colmar, yet it has a great deal of the character of
the latter variety. Its size, beauty, and early bearing are

New Varieties of Pears. Ill

also qualities which add greatly to its value. We shall fully
describe all these in the course of the present volume.

The following descriptions of several new varieties which
have recently been brought to notice, are copied from the Bon
Ja7-difiier, for 1848 : —

Beurri Bretonneau. — Fruit regularly oval, at first deep
green, afterwards becoming yellow and dotted with russet :
stem short : flesh melting and sugary. Ripe in March and
April.

Beiirri (T Esperine. — Fruit large, of first rate quality: flesh
melting and perfumed. Ripe from February to May.

Beurre Giffard^ (or Giffart.') — A melting fruit, of the size
of the St. Germain. Ripe the end of July. Branches
slender; and the tree very suitable for forming a pyr-
amid.

Bon Gustave. — Fruit pyramidal, about seven inches in
circumference : skin greenish yellow, with large irregular
spots : stem long and slender.

Calebasse d'Hiver. — Fruit turbinate, of the size of the
Brown Beurre : flesh half-melting. Ripe in February and
March. The tree is not very productive as a pyramid.

Cassante de Mars. — Fruit of the size and form of the pre-
ceding; flesh crisp. Ripe in March and April. It does not
thrive on the quince.

Catinka. — Fruit roundish or turbinate, of the size of a
Catillac : the flesh is melting, but it must be eaten when just
in perfection ; for it soon decays. Ripe in November and De-
cember. The tree vigorous and productive, and suitable for
a pyramid.

Due de Nemours. — Fruit oval, upwards of two and a half
inches in diameter, and nearly four inches in length : stem
obliquely inserted ; skin smooth green, sprinkled with gray
spots : it acquires a yellowish tinge on approaching maturity.
The flesh is white, tender, and melting.

Passe Tardive. — Fruit of the size of a St. Germain, nearly
as broad as long, swelling in the middle ; flesh crisp ; will
keep a year. Tree middle-sized.

Poire F^aurite. — Fruit of the size and form of a small short
St. Germain ; skin, yellow, shining, tinged with red next the
sun, and marked with numerous small reddish dots; the eye

112 Pomological Notices.

is shallow ; stem of medium length and thickness, fleshy at
its jmiction with the fruit; flesh yellowish white, half-melting,
and tolerably fine-grained, with a peculiar slight perfume.
Keeps nearly a year.

Reine des Poires. — Fruit of the size of the Passe Colmar,
turbinate ; skin reddish ; flesh half-melting. Ripe from No-
vember to January. [This is different from the old Reine
des Poires.]

Triomphe de Jodoigne. — A large pyriform fruit, five inches
in length, and three and a half in diameter ; eye depressed ;
stem short and thick ; skin deep yellow, slightly tinged with
green on the shaded side, and deep red in the sun ; flesh melt-
ing and perfumed. Ripe in November. The tree is very vig-
orous.

VauqueUn. — Fruit large, oval, jutting out towards the mid-
dle, or oblong- turbinate, obtuse at the stalk : flesh slightly
coarse, with an abundance of juice, of a rich, subacid, per-
fumed flavor. Ripe from November till March.

Arhre Courbe. — Fruit of the size of the St. Germain; flesh
melting. Ripens in October and November. Tree vigorous
and fertile ; very irregular in its growth, and requires partic-
ular management as a pyramidal tree.

APPLES.

In our last two or three volumes, we have noticed quite a
number of apples which have been brought to notice ni the
West, and most of which have been supposed to be seedlings.
A few of them, however, have proved to be old kinds, which
had been carried from the East in the early settlement of the
country, and others may yet prove synonymous with our
well known apples. The Putnam Russet was asserted to be
a new western variety, and was so described by some authors.
Two years ago, (Vol. XIT. p. 3,) when we stated that it was
merely a synonyme of the old Roxbury Russet, our correspond-
ent, Mr. Ernst, called upon us to show our authority for do-
ing so, (XV. p. 135.) This we did, as we then believed, sat-
isfactorily to any reasonable cultivator, and, since then, we
are glad to learn that it is admitted, even by those who de-
scribed it as the Putnam Russet, to be no other than the Rox-
bury Russet.

New Varieties of Apples. 113

In another page, we have briefly reviewed a small pam-
phlet, containing the Transactions of the Ohio Nurserymen
and Fruit-growers' Convention, held at Columbus in Septem-
ber last. Quite a number of apples were brought to the con-
vention by the various members from all parts of the State,
and some new kinds, or at least supposed new ones, were
among them. It is very probable, however, that some, which
the committee name, describe, and give outline engravings of,
will prove to be old varieties ; but, in order that pomologists
and cultivators may be made acquainted with them, we have
selected the following among those which appear to be new.
We have previously described (Vol. XI. p. 206, and XII. p.
476,) a large portion of the varieties which are enumerated
in the Transactions.

White Pipjnn. — A fine fruit, uniformly fair, of a size lar-
ger than the Newtown Pippin, the trees more rapid growers,
a great keeper, suited to the table, and fully equal to New-
town Pippin in March and April. It is supposed to have
come from Virginia or Kentucky.

Willow^ or WilloiD Twig. — A great keeper, and of good
size, — regarded as among the most valuable apples cultivated
on the Ohio River. Size large; form globular, or nearly so;
skin of a dull greenish yellow : stem short : flesh yellowish,
juicy, pleasantly acid, but not of high flavor. Keeps until
April or June. It is stated to have been brought from New
Jersey.

Springer^s Seedling. — Exhibited by the Rev. C. Springer,
and claimed by him as a seedling. Fruit of 1846 and 1847
were exhibited together. A great keeper, and extremely val-
uable. Fruit small, oblong, oval in form, dull yellowish
green, with stripes of red.

Wells. — Cultivated under the name of Striped R. I Green-
ing and English Winter Red Streak in some localities. Does
well in all soils ; is a very desirable apple ; a good bearer, and
keeps until April. Fruit large, roundish, a little flattened,
often one-sided, and narrowing to the eye ; skin bright yellow-
ish green, streaked and blotched with red next the sun : flesh
white, tender, juicy, with a sprightly acid flavor. As a bak-
ing apple, it is unsurpassed. Ripe from November to March.

10*

114 Pomolo<rical Notices.

The trees grow very vigorously, with spreading tops and
slender branches, and bear abundantly every year.

Polly Bright. — A variety of fine appearance, much resem-
bling good specimens of the Maiden's Blush. It is said to be
a native of western Virginia in the neighborhood of the Mo-
nongahela. Decidedly a good keeper, a fine bearer, often
large, always handsome and good.

Fall Witic. — From Belmont county, and believed to be
undescribed. It is one of the best flavored apples of its sea-
son, which is September and October.

Red Ashmore. — A beautiful apple, said to have been intro-
duced into Ohio, from Brownsville, Pa. It may be called
one of the most beautiful apples grown. The tree is a mod-
erate bearer. Fruit about medium size, and often large : form
globular : skin smooth, clear, beautiful deep red : flesh yellow-
ish white, juicy, delicate, and very pleasant. Ripe from Oc-
tober to December.

Western Sj^y. — A seedling of Wayne, Jeflerson Co. ; blos-
soms are not injured by frost, and therefore deemed valuable.
Fruit large, of globular form, slightly flattened : skin clear
yellow, with pale red cheek, and surface dotted with small
white or gray specks : stem short and stout : Flesh yellowish
white. Keeps until March.

Ohio Nonpareil. — A large apple, of round form, little irreg-
ular, and somewhat ribbed ; skin rich yellow ground, striped
and splashed with rich clear red : stem short, in a deep cav-
ity : flesh yellowish, crisp, tender, juicy, and with a flavor
somewhat resembling the Gravenstein, though it lacks the
sj)iciness of that variety. Ripe in October.

Philips Sioeeting. — A large and handsome sweet apple,
which has already been noticed by us, (Vol. XIII. p. 187.)
It is supposed to be a seedling of Coshocton Co., Ohio. It is
a thrifty and great bearer : fruit remarkably handsome : color
red, or striped with dark red, over a ground of mottled red
and yellow : size medium : form nearly round, and little flat-
tened : stem three quarters of an inch long : flesh, rich, yel-
low, tender, juicy, and crisp, with an agreeable flavor. Ripe
from November to March.

Many other varieties are briefly noticed, whose names ap-
pear to be new ; but, as no particular descriptions are given,
we defer an account of them till another year.

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Apples. 115

Art. IV. Descriptions and Engravings of Select Varieties
of Apples. By the Editor.

XIIT. Early Harvest. Ameincan Orchardist.

Large Early Harvest. Thacher's American Orehardist.
Prince's Harvest, or i

Early French Reinette, I ^'^''' ^''""^ ^^-
July Pippin. Floy, in Guide to the Orchard.
Large White Juneating, -j
. Yellow Harvest, > of some American collections.

Tart Bough, '

July Early Pippin,

Large Early, < London Hort. Soc. Cat. 3d Ed

The Early Harvest, {fig. 11,) is undoubtedly the finest
early apple we possess. Of full medium size, it has a rich

Fig. 1 1 . Early Harvest.

yellow skin, a crisp and tender flesh, and combines, in its fla-
vor, that pleasant admixture of sweet and acid, which gives it
a freshness peculiar among early apples. Though of Amer-
ican origin, and fully described by Coxe^ in his excellent work,
under the names above quoted, it is yet far from being com-
mon in collections in the vicinity of Boston, and is so scantily

116 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Apples.

supplied in our markets, that fine specimens always command
a very high price. No collection of early apples should be
without this fine variety.

The Early Harvest is of vigorous growth, branching rather
low, and forming a compact head ; with erect, rather stout
annual shoots, and, in young trees, the fruit is usually pro-
duced on the ends of the branches. With good cultivation,
the trees bear fine crops of very handsome fruit.

Size, medium, about three inches broad, and two and a half
deep : Form, roundish, slightly angular, and full at the crown :
Skin, fair, smooth, pale yellow or straw-color when mature,
very slightly tinged with blush on the sunny side, with a few
traces of russet around the stem, and some scattered spots of
the same color, intermixed with white specks, over the sur-
face : Stem, medium length, about three quarters of an inch
long, rather slender, and inserted in a moderately deep and
somewhat narrow cavity : Eye, medium size, closed, and
slightly sunk in a shallow, nearly smooth, basin : Flesh,
white, rather fine, crisp and tender : Juice, abundant, pleas-
antly acid, sprightly, and well-flavored : Core, rather close :
Seeds, small. Ripe from the middle of July to the end of
August.

XIV. Porter. American Orchardist.

The Porter, {fig. 12,) must, without doubt, be ranked at the
head of our fall apples. It comes into fruit just after the
Williams, and, though not so showy as the latter fruit, its fine
yellow skin, tinged with a shade of pale blush, places it among
our handsomest apples. In sprighthness of flavor, it is scarcely
equalled by any other fall variety.

The Porter originated in Sherburne, on the grounds of the
Rev. Samuel Porter, about fifty years ago, and remained
unnoticed in his orchard for some years. Mr. Sanger, a near
neighbor, passing through it one day, had his attention at-
tracted to the apple, from some very handsome specimens
which fell from the tree, and, calling upon the owner, ap-
prized him of the valuable fruit he had upon his grounds, at
the same time requesting some scions. Mr. Porter, then some-
what advanced in life, and not seeming to be aware of its ex-
cellence, replied, ' ' that he might have the w hole tree if he

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Apples. 1 17

wished." Mr. Sanger was content, however, to possess the
scions, and, from that period, the Porter grew rapidly in favor,
and no orchard could be considered complete without it. The
tree is of vigorous and upright habit, though of rather slow
growth, making short-jointed wood, and forming a low spread-
ing head. It is also very productive, and the fruit remarkably
fair.

Fig. 12. Porter.

Size, large, about two and a half inches broad, and three
deep : Form, oblong, largest about one third from the stem,
little flattened at the base, narrowing to the crown, which is
slightly oblique, and somewhat ribbed : Ski7i, fair, smooth,
clear bright yellow, faintly striped and marbled with a dull
blush on the sunny side, and marked with a few crimson
dots : Ste}7i, rather short, about three quarters of an inch long,
slender, curved, and inserted in an open, broad, and not very
deep cavity : Eye, rather large, open, and sunk in a moderately
deep ribbed hollow; segments of the calyx long, regularly
formed, and reflexed at the ends : Flesh, yellowish, fine, crisp

118 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Apples.

and tender : Juice abundant, rich, subacid, very sprightly and
high flavored : Core, medium size, shghtly open : Seeds,
rather large, acutely pointed. Ripe in September and October.

XV. Williams. American Orchardist.

Williams's Favorite. Fruits and Fruit Trees of America.
Williams's Favorite Red. Book of Fruits, 1st Ed..
Williams's Early, of some collections.

The Williams apple, (fig. 13,) is, perhaps, next to the Red
Astrachan, the most beautiful of our summer varieties. The

Fig-. 13. Williams.

skin is of the deepest crimson hue, over a paler ground, and
possesses a remarkably smooth and glossy surface. It is also
of large size, and of superior flavor.

The Williams originated in that part of Roxbury formerly
called Canterbury, upon the farm of Mr. Benjamin Williams,
who purchased the land on which it grew nearly a century
ago. At an advanced age, high winds partially destroyed
the tree, and it was subsequently cut down. Previously, how-

On the Cultivation of Eptphyllurn Russelliknum, etc. 119

ever, scions had been taken off by Mr. Williams, and grafted
into other trees. It was introduced to notice by Mr. Downer, of
Dorchester, who exhibited specimens in 1830, before the Mass.
Hort. Society, and they gave it the name of Williams. It was
previously known in the market under the name of Queen
and Ladies' apple, and was one of the most favorite summer
varieties. Since then its cultivation has greatly increased,
and the market is now supplied in considerable quantities,
though not to so great an extent as the demand. The tree is
of vigorous and upright growth, and forms a round head ; it is
also a productive variety, but, to have large and very fine
specimens, a rich soil and good cultivation are requisite.

Size, large, about two and three quarters inches broad, and
two and a half deep : Form, oblong, with some uneven ridges
around the base, and narrowing towards the eye : Skin, fair,
smooth, shining, of a brilliant crimson, covered with very in-
distinct stripes and mottlings of a darker shade : Stem, medium
length, about one inch long, moderately stout, straight,
swollen at the base, and obliquely inserted in a rather shallow
broad cavity: Eye, medium size, closed, and little depressed
in a small, abruptly sunk, and rather shallow basin : Flesh,
yellow, rather coarse, somewhat crisp and tender : Juice,
abundant, rich, pleasantly acid, and fine flavored : Core, large,
rather close: Seeds, large, very long, and pointed. Ripe
from the beginning of August to the middle of September.

Art. V. On the Cultivation of Epiphyllum Kussellikmim
and other Cacti ; with a short notice of a new variety of
Cabbage. By J. E. Teschemacher.

I observe, in your last number, an inquiry respecting the
cultivation of Epiphyllum 'Riissellidnum, the most beautiful
of the tribe. Having been very successful in my efforts with
the cactus family, I will give you an account of my usual
method of cultivation, and then state how I have succeeded
in producing from twenty to twenty-five blossoms on a small
plant of E. RusselUdnum. As a proof, however, of general
success, I may mention that the plant of Echinocactus Eyriesw',

120 On the CiiUivation of E'piphyllum Riissell\h.\\\\m, etc.

exhibited last summer at the Hall of the Mass. Hort. Society,
with eleven buds and blossoms, has now thirty buds, and,
from the strength of the plant, they will probably all come to
perfection ; my own beautiful seedling between C. speciosissi-
mus and Ackermdnni seems pushing out buds from almost
every notch. E. truncatum, long since out of blossom, was a
complete mass of flowers.

The first requisite is complete drainage of the pot ; with
the soil, which should rather be rich than poor, mix a little
powdered charcoal, and some, not much, old lime rubbish. I
think this latter useful, as my cultivation depends mainly on
Guano water, from which the lime sets the ammonia at liber-
ty, while the charcoal absorbs, (stores up), and thus prevents
the loss of what is not immediately used by the plant. The
chief principles after this are to keep the plants warm, with
as much light as possible, but nearly altogether dry during
their hybernation or period of rest, and to water them plenti-
fully, during their period of growth and flowering, with Guano
water ; when the flowers begin to fade, then commence b};"
degrees withholding water. For instance, Epiphyllum trunca-
tum finished blooming the end of January, its period of rest
begins, it is now quite dry, and hangs up close under the
glass ; in this state, the thermometer occasionally at 38 Fah.
does not injure it. Thus it will remain until the end of
March, when it will receive plentiful watering once a week
only. About the middle or end of April, it will swell up, and
in a fortnight or three weeks from that time, young leaves will
appear ; then I shall begin with Guano water, twice or three
limes a week : the phyllous stems will soon become large, and
dark green ; should the Guano stimulate a second crop of
these, pick them off" without mercy; towards winter again
water will be given sparingly till the buds appear. I have
not changed the soil of my Cacti for three years. This plan
is pursued with all. With respect to E. Russelliawzmi, now
in fine bloom with me, I observed, at the period of the first
appearance of the buds, that a number of the phyllous stems
pushed forth their little red noses, not only from the terminal
stem but also below : these were immediately pinched clean
out with the finger and thumb nail ; in many cases flower
buds sprang out near the same spot.

On the Cultivation of Epljphyllwm Russelliknum, etc. 121

The cultivation of this tribe of plants is attended with many-
conveniences. — They will thrive luxuriantly where there is
not air enough for many of the woody and shrubby plants to
flourish, and the most disagreeable of all things to a horticul-
turist is a dwindling, half-starved vegetation; they will bear
alternate heat and cold during their period of rest, which by
management may be made to occur chiefly in the winter j
their blossoms, though fleeting, are generally beautiful, often
very fragrant, and their forms, if not elegant, are very curious
and interesting.

While writing, permit me to touch on a very diflferent sub-
ject. Last spring, Mr. H, Colman sent me from Paris a
small quantity of cabbage seed, labelled : "given me as seed
of a most extraordinary cabbage. — I have not seen it." This
seed I distributed amongst many of my friends, and sowed
some myself When it first came up, the seedlings so much
resembled those of the Couve tronchuda sowed in an adjoin-
ing patch, that 1 could not then tell the difference. The re-
sult is as follows. The cabbage is of the pine apple form,
weighs from six to twelve or fifteen lbs. each, is the purest
and sweetest vegetable of the tribe, and not a single plant of
all mine, or those of my friends, failed forming fine, hard,
solid heads.

One plant, of which the head was broken off" soon after
planting out, sent forth four shoots, each of which formed a
fine solid head ; the four weighed 12| pounds. Mr. L. Stone,
of Water town, to whom I gave some seed, exhibited this
cabbage at the Annual Exhibition of our Horticultural Socie-
ty, and he was kind enough to distribute plants all around,
last autumn, for the purpose of being kept through the winter
for seeding the approaching summer, so that I hope we shall
have plenty of seed for next season. It seems to me highly
probable that it will take the place of the large drumhead, as
four or five of these will grow in the same space as is required
for two of the others; add to this, that the flavor is far
superior, and the faculty of heading well, unfailing.

Although I have no name for it, I think it very probable
that it is the Pomeranian Cabbage, mentioned in one of your
volumes, probably 1842 or 1844, as having been just intro-
duced into England or Scotland, where it met with much

VOL. XIV. — NO. III. 11

122 General Notices.

commendation. Perhaps you can refer to it more readily
than I can.

Feb. 2\st, 1848.

Our thanks are due to Mr. Teschemacher for his reply to
the query of our correspondent, in regard to the management
of that beautiful plant, the Epiphyllum Russellid?»/m. Few
of the Cacti deserve so much at the cultivator's hands as this
brilliant species, and all lovers of the family must be highly
gratified to learn the routine adopted by Mr. Teschemacher to
produce such excellent results, not only with this species, but
with others, more particularly the too much neglected, but
lovely Echinoc actus Eyriesii, a plant which is so admirably
adapted to parlor cultivation, that every bod}'' should possess
it. Mr. Teschemacher has paid a just tribute to the merits of
the Cacti. Flourishing as they will, where most plants present
only a " half-starved vegetation", — they present the strongest
claims to the attention of all who love window gardens, and
who love to see a thriving vegetation, though it be in the sin-
gular or grotesque form of the Cacti tribe.

We are glad our correspondent has alluded to the new
variety of cabbage introduced by Mr. Colman ; a few heads
were given to us last fall by Mr. L. Stone, and we were struck
with their peculiar pointed and sugar-loaf form. Upon receiv-
ing the above, we immediately turned to our volume where
the Pomeranian Cabbage is noticed (X. p. 98), and we have
no doubt it is the same variety. So delicious a vegetable is
deserving of extensive cultivation, and the testimony of Mr.
Teschemacher to its excellence, is sufficient to recommend it
to all cultivators. — Ed.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General Notices.

On the Art of Hybridizing Flowers. — Although hybridizing, as an art, be
of recent date, there is not the least doubt but that Nature herself practised
it from time immemorial, the agents employed for the purpose being winds
and insects, and, of the latter, more particularly the bee. But he stated

General Notices. 123

that Nature, in lier wisdom, had not only set bounds to the admixture of
species, but she had also set up other barriers almost as insurmountable as
the mixing of species themselves, for we find that a perfect hybrid, both in
the animal and vegetable kingdom, is almost always incapable of propagat-
ing itself by natural means. In the animal kingdom, the mule is a striking
instance ; and, in the vegetable kingdom, it is only by again crossing the
true hybrid by one of its own parents that we can expect success, and, after
we have succeeded, the general tendency of the progeny is to return to one
or other of the original parents. Thus it requires all the vigilance of the
cultivator to mark, seize, and act upon every variation, however slight, that
may present iiself to his observation. After various allusions to the ad-
mixture of species in the animal kingdom, Mr. K. proceeded to state that,
in vegetables, Brassicas freely mix with Brassicas in all their gradations.
But who would think of crossing a cabbage with an oak ! The general
rule is, that plants only which are nearly related are capable of producing
crosses. There are some exceptions, however, to this rule, for the beauti-
ful pelargoniums and the scarlet geranium, though nearly allied, he had not
been able to mix. Again, the raspberry and strawberry are first cousins;
yet, after several attempts, they have not hybridized. The gooseberry and
the currant are nearly related ; yet their alliance seems invincible, though
tried by skilful hands. Mr. K. then commented on the mixture of herba-
ceous and shrubby species of plants, particularly calceolarias and semi-
herbaceous fuchsias. After alluding to the improvements that might be
effected in culinary vegetables and fruits by hybridizing, he proceeded to
state that, although hybridizing had already produced important results,
there is no telling what might yet be produced by the skilful application of
the means which Nature has put into our hands. The existence of sexes in
plants is now acknowledged by all, and hybridizing, as well as cross-breeding,
is generally performed in the following manner : — Carefully select parents
possessing the nearest approach to the properties desired, place them apart
from plants of their kind, and pay particular attention to their cultivation, in
order to obtain a healthy fructification. It may be discretionary which to
select as the male and female ; by all that is known, the progeny will take
more after the males. When the plants are in flower, carefully extract the
anthers from the flower you intend should produce seed, before they arrive
at maturity, or your attempts will be of no avail ; for Nature will have per-
formed her part, and, instead of a hybrid, you will have a natural progeny.
After extracting the anthers from the flower you wish to bear the seed,
carefully watch the progress of the stigma, and, as soon as you find it in a
condition to receive the pollen, choose the matured anthers, and bring them
in gentle contact with the stigma, to which sufiicient pollen will adheie.
In some plants, there is no difl!iculty in ascertaining the precise time, when
the stigma is ready to receive the pollen, such are pelargoniums, the stigma
in which, until perfectly matured, is closed, and, if not watched at its expan-
sion, and fertilized, abortion will follow. It must be borne in mind that the
stigma once fertilized is sufficient. Insects and strong currents of air should
be excluded whilst plants for hybridizing are in flower. Mr. Beck, and

124 Domestic Notices.

other good growers, practise this plan by covering the places through which
air is admitted with very fine gauze. Mr. K. admitted that most of the ap-
proved pelargoniums, fuchsias, &c., were not strictly hybrids, but crosses
of hybrids. Ornamental flowers and plants, when long and highly culti-
vated (continued Mr. Kendall,) have a tendency to acquire a size and con-
formation of parts widely different from their natural state. The judicious
cultivator will seize upon these indications, and perpetuate them. That
plants and flowers are much affected by seasons is evident from the fact
that some plants produce double, semi-double, and single flowers alternately.
Color is also much affected by the same influences. Florists are opposed to
the late Mr. Knight in their practice ; for they recommend the weakest
plants, and those that germinate last, to be taken the greatest care of, as
they are sure to produce the most valuable flowers. Now both are right ;
for, when a good fruit or vegetable is wanted, natural vigor is most requi-
site ; but, in a florist's flower, where chastity of form and beautiful marking
are required, the weakest plants will be the most likely to produce the best,
for they are evidently the production of Nature's weakest powers. —
{Gard. Chron., 1848, p. 6.)

Art. II. Domestic Notices.

Mr. Berk's special prizes for Pelargoniums. — By a reference to the pro-
ceedings of the Mass. Horticultural Society, in another page, it will be
seen, that, in addition to the society's premiums for Pelargoniums, two lib-
eral prizes are ofl:ered by Mr. Beck, the celebrated amateur cultivator of this
beautiful family, for superior specimens of the newest varieties. We trust
this offer may induce all amateurs, as well as professional gardeners, to com-
pete for these prizes, and thus be the means of elevating the taste for the
pelargonium, certainly among the richest of our greenhouse and parlor
plants. — Ed.

The Red Canada Apple. — In our last volume, we described the Red Can-
ada apple, as a newly introduced variety ; superior specimens had been
sent to us two years in succession, and of such surpassing beauty, and with
so many encomiums regarding its quality, that we gave a description of it,
accompanied with an outline figure. It appeared to us a familiar flavored
apple, but the fact that it had been received from Canada, at once appeared
to decide any doubts about its being synonymous with any thing we had in
our vicinity. We have been somewhat surprised therfore, to learn, from
those who have compared this apple with tliC old Nonesuch, that the two
are identical. This opportunity we have not had ourself; but as soon as
we have both fruits before us to make certain, we shall mention it again.
Relying, however, upon the good judgment of those who made the state-
ment, that they are so, cultivators will be careful in regard to adding the
Red Canada to their collections, as a new apple. We hope our correspond-
ents, Messrs. Bissell and Sibley, of Rochester, who forwarded us beautiful

Domestic Notices. 125

specimens, will let us know their opinion, in regard to the identity of the
two apples. — Ed.

Albany and Rensselaer Horticultural Society. Winter Meeting \of M(m-
bers. Albany, Feb. llth, 1848. — The Society met at the Agricultural
rooms pursuant to notice, — V. P. Douw, one of the Vice Presidents of
the Society, in the chair. Dr. Herman Wendell, from the committee chosen
at the last meeting to prepare a premium list for 1848, reported a list, which
was adopted, and will be published hereafter. After various amendments
were made to the rules, and notices of intended alterations to the Consti-
tution given, the following gentlemen were, on motion, appointed by the
chair, a committee to report a list of officers and committees for 1848 to the
Society at the May meeting, viz. : E. P. Prentice, V. P. Douw, Herman
Wendell, Dr. Thomas Vail, Amos Briggs, Wm. Buswell, and Wm. New-
comb. On motion of Wm. Buswell of Rensselaer, and seconded by Wm.
Newcomb, the following Pomological Rules were adopted by the Society,
and substituted for those heretofore adopted, viz. :

[These rules are precisely the same as those adopted by the New York
State Agricultural Society , and already laid before our readers at p. 67. — Ed.]

The Committee on Fruits reported that there was exhibited, by Dr. J. P.
Beekman, of Kinderhook, Columbia County, beautiful specimens of Swaar
and Newtown Pippin Apples. By Thomas M. Burt, of Kinderhook, Eso-
pus Spitzemberg, and Swaar apples. By Henry Snyder, nurseryman, of
Kinderhook, beautiful Roxbury Russet, Vandervere, Lady apples, and
Seedling Winter pears. By Peter Kingman, of Kinderhook, Bristol Ap-
ples, a good and handsome sweet apple. By Albert Martin, of Schaghticoke,
per Amos Briggs, Swaar and Blue Pearmain apples. By Joseph Mosher, per
Amos Briggs, Scolloped or German Gilliflower apples, very fine. By Roswell
S. Brown, per Amos Briggs, Westfield Seek-no-further apples. By Julius
Rhodes, of Albany, Northern Spy apples from the Chapin orchard in
Ontario County. By E. C. Frost, of Catherine Chemung Co., a nursery-
man. Winter King apples, a beautiful and good late winter fruit. By Dr.
Herman Wendell, of Albany, Newtown Pippin, and Pomme de Charles, or
Male Carle apples ; Easter Beurr^, Inconnue of Van Mons, and Prince's
St. Germain pears. By Wm. Newcomb, of Pittstown, Roxbury Russet,
Westfield Seek-no-further, Rhode Island Greening, Blue Pearmain, Fall
Greening,? Pound Sweet, Black Gilliflower, Esopus Spitzemberg, Red Gil-
liflowers, and two seedlings.

The Committee awarded the premium for Winter Pears^ to Dr. Herman
Wendell, $3.

The first premium for Winter Apples, to Wm Newcomb, $3.

The second for Winter Apples, to Dr. Herman Wendell, $2.

The Committee beg leave to recommend that the thanks of the Society be
tendered to Dr Beekman, Thomas M. Burt, Henry Snyder, and Peter King-
man, of Columbia County, and also to E. C. Frost, of Chemung County, and
to the gentlemen from Schaghticoke, for their contribution to the exhibition.
For the Committee, V. P. Douw.

The Committee on Floral Designs, Bouquets, &c., reported that the
11*

126 Petmsylvania Horticultural Society.

President of the Society, Col. Joel Rathbone, exhibited three beautiful bou-
quets, composed of choice greenhouse flowers, and arranged with good
taste by his gardener, John Sloan, to whom they have awarded the pre-
mium of $2. The Committee regret that the extreme cold weather, — the
mercury being below 0° of Fahrenheit — prevented greater competition.
For the Committee. Herman Wendell.

The Committee on Greenhouse Flowers reported that Mr. James Wil-
son exhibited the following named beautiful Camellia Japonicas, viz. : —
Chandleru, Queen Victoria, Donckelaern, Saccoz magnifique, Sesanqua
rosea, amabalis, Prattu, candidissima, Henri Favre, Sarah Frost, Mar-
chioness of Exeter, Double white, carnea, Carswellmna, Gunnelhajjo,
Sherwoodii, Rose pleno, William the Fourth, imbricata. Double striped,
and elata. Ericas, transparens and Bowieana, Eschynanthus grandifl6ra,
Poins^ttia pulch6rimum, twenty varieties of beautiful Pansies, Chinese
Primroses, &c. &c.

The Committee awarded the premium of $ 3 00 for the best six Camel-
lias, to Mr. Wilson — for varieties : fimbriata, Carswelhana, Sarah Frost,
imbricata, Gunnelliaraa, and candidissima. — They awarded the premium
of $2 00 for the second best six, to Mr. Wilson — for varieties : amabilis,
Henri Favre, Saccoi magnifique, William the Fourth, Double white,
Queen Victoria. And they also awarded a premium of $ 2 00 to Mr. Wil-
son, for his beautiful display of Pansies. For the Com., Wm. Newcomb.
The Committee on discretionary premiums reported that there was exhib-
ited by Col. Rathbone, three bunches of Asparagus, evincing great skill in
his gardener, John Sloan, to whom they have awarded a premium of $2 00.
For the Committee, /. Mc D. Mc Intyre.

B. P. JOHNSON, Secretary, Albany, Feb. 11, 1848.

Art. hi. Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.

This Society held its Nineteenth Annual Exhibition, on the fifteenth,
sixteenth, and seventeenth, of Sept. last, and the report which has been
sent to us, fills a pamphlet of nearly fifty pages. We therefore, are only
enabled to give a very brief account of it, for warit of room.

An immense number of plants in pots, were exhibited by various ama-
teurs and nurserymen; the floral designs, bouqets, &c., were very numer-
ous and attractive ; and the fruits, especially the grapes, were superior to
those of previous years ; the vegetables were also exhibited in liberal quan-
tities, and of fine quality.

Premiums for the hesl foreign grapes, under glass, were awarded to Wm.
Sinton, gardener to George W, Carpenter, for the best collection, and to
R. S. Field, Princeton, N. J., for the second best.

For the best and most numerous collection of named varieties of pears, to
J. Rutter, West Chester, Pa.

Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. 127

For the best twenty blooms of named varieties of Dahlias, to G. Schmitz ;
also for the second best, and the best American seedlings.

Delegations were appointed to attend the annual exhibitions of various
societies in different sections of this country, and the reports of the dele-
gations fill several pages. But we have only room to notice one of them.
The delegation to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, was composed of
Dr. Brinckle, and T. McEuen, and the following is an abstract of their report.

" The delectation to the Exhibition of the Massachusetts Horticultural
Society beg leave to report, that they attended the Annual Exhibition of
that Society, which was held at their Hall in Boston, on the 22d, 23d and
24th inst.

High as our expectations had been raised, in regard to this Exhibition,
they fell far short of the reality. But the Fruit department more especially
excited our admiration.

Of Apples, there was a rich display, embracing many kinds not usually
met with in the vicinity of Philadelphia : such as Corse's St. Lawrence,
French's Sweet, Bourrassa, Murphy, Fearn's Pippin, Minister, Beauty of
Kent, Spice, Garden Royal, Pumpkin Sweet, Marigold, Smith's Fine Ta-
ble, Seaver's Sweet, Hubbardston Nonsuch, York Russet, Lyscom, Perry's
Winter Sweet, Fameuse, Chestnut, Blenheim Pippin, Walpole, Ribstone
Pippin, Ross' Nonpareil, Reinette du Canada, &c.

As to Pears, there probably never was, at any period, or in any country, a
finer collection exhibited. From the garden of the President, we noticed about
160 varieties, of beautiful appearance, and of great excellence. Messrs.
French, Walker, Newhall, Macondry, Hovey, Manning, Lovitt, Johnson,
Cabot, and many other individuals also, contributed extensive collections of
rare and valuable kinds.

We were not a little gratified at seeing, on the tables, specimens of so many
of our native Pears. Among these were the Pratt, Knight's Seedling, Jo-
honnot. Dearborn's Seedling, Seckel, Andrews, Buffam, Fulton, Heathcote,
Washington, Wilkinson, Dix, Williams' Early, Rapelje's Seedhng, Chelms-
ford, and Gushing. Most of these are of Eastern origin, and of great
merit ; comparing most favorably with the celebrated varieties recently im-
ported from England, France and Belgium. We were more especially
pleased with the delicious flavor and superior excellence of the Pratt, An-
drews, Johonnot, and Knight's Seedling. The beautiful specimens of the
Washington, grown on the Quince, from the garden of Capt. Macondry,
also particularly attracted our notice.

The Grapes, as might be expected, excited much admiration. The size
and beauty of the specimens of this luscious fruit, indicated the great per-
fection at which our Boston friends have arrived, in its cultivation. Among
the many choice varieties exhibited, we noticed the Victoria, Black Prince,
several varieties of the Black Hamburg, the Cannon Hall Muscat, Black
Lombardy, Muscat of Alexandria, Chasselas de Fontainebleau, Franken-
dale, Esperione, Grizzly Frontignac, Syrian, St. Peter's, White Tokay,
Zinfindal, etc.

But, though the greatest charm of the Exhibition consisted in the magnifi-

128 Massachusetts Hortlciiltiiral Society.

cent display of Fruit, we cannot omit to notice, in terms of high commenda-
tion, the Floral department : Dahlias, Japan Lilies, German Asters, and
other flowers of exquisite beauty and brilliant hues, were in great abun-
dance, imparting gayety and animation to the scene. The wreaths, festoons,
and other decorations, were tasteful and effective; and indeed, in all its de-
partments, the Exhibition was such as to do great credit to the Committee
of Arrarigement, and add to the renown of this far-famed Society.

Though at a loss how to compress within the limits of a Report, the
many matters of interest offered to our notice in this visit, there is one
other of too great importance, in its practical bearings, to be omitted ; we
refer to the examination of the new or little known varieties of fruit dis-
played on the occasion. This examination took place on the last day of the
Exhibition, and in the Library-room of the Society. There, were assem-
bled, the Fruit Committee, with the President of the Society, and, by invi-
tation, the delegates from six or eight Horticultural Institutions, together
with several other distinguished Pomologists. The fruit alluded to was
submitted to the inspection of the gentlemen present, and at the same time,
the circumstances connected with its introduction or discovery were made
known ; the fruit was then tasted, and a record made of the observations.
The result of the examination would sometimes warrant a decision that
might be considered final. In this manner, the merits of the fruit in ques-
tion were tested by a number of well qualified persons, whose appreciation
could scarcely fail of being just ; thereby tending to a rapid dissemination
of the valuable sorts, the rejection of the inferior, and the lessening of dis-
appointment that too often falls to the lot of the Horticulturist.

In conclusion, we beg leave publicly to express our warm and grateful
acknowledgments to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, for the cor-
dial welcome with which we were greeted on our arrival — the kind and un-
remitting attentions we received during our stay — and the facilities, so gen-
erously afforded us, for visiting the princely gardens in the vicinity of their
enchanting city." Report, pp. 602 — 605.

Art. IV. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, January 8th, 1848. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was
held to-day, — the President in the Chair.

The Secretary being absent, Mr. C. M. Hovey was appointed Secretary
pro tern.

The Finance Committee submitted the Annual Report, which is sub-
joined.

The Committee of Finance, having examined the accounts of the Treas-
urer, respectfully submit the enclosed Statements of Receipts, Expendi-
tures, and Investments of the Society, from which it appears that the Re-
ceipts have been seven thousand six hundred and thirty-three dollars and
sixty-seven cents, including the balance of fifty-nine dollars and fifty -eight

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

129

cents in the Treasurer's hands at the commencement of the year, as per
Statement marked A.

That the Expenditures and Investments during the year have been seven
thousand five hundred and eighty-six dollars and thirty-two cents, leaving a
balance in the Treasurer's hands, on the 31st Dec. 1847, of forty-seven
dollars and thirty-five cents, as per Statement B.

That the Real Estate and personal property of the Society, as valued in
the Schedule annexed, marked C, amounts to forty -five thousand and ninety-
three dollars and fifty cents.

STATEMENT A.
Receipts from January 1st to December 1st, 1847.

Balance in the Treasury January 1st, .

Cash of Geo. Bond, Esq., Treasurer of Mount Auburn

Rent and Taxes of Store,

Rent and Taxes of Hall,

Donation by Josiah Bradlee, Esq.,

Admission fee — assessments.

Weekly Exhibition,

Annual Exhibition,

Dividends,

183 83

560 86

$59 58

3,233 41

1,090 00

350 00

500 00

1,356 00

749 69
294 99

7,633 67

STATEMENT B.

Paid investment of Bradlee Fund,

. $500 00

" insurance for 1847 and 1848, two years.

115 00

" premiums,

" for rail-road stock,

1,241 00

2,458 50

" taxes.

180 00

" for Library,

" interest, . . .

141 00
750 00

" Doorkeeper, and care of Hall,
" on account of Transactions,

444 72
450 00

" J. B. Hancock,

160 75

" for repairs,

" for printing and advertising,
" for diplomas,

" for gas, ....
" miscellaneous expenses.
Balance in the hands of the Treasurer,

Decemb

er 31st,

1847,

238 13

409 73

43 50

54 00

399 99

47 45

$7,633 67

130

Massachusetts Horticultural Society,

C. SCHEDULE

Of the Property of the Massachuselis Horticultural Society, viz. : —

Horticultural Hall in School Street, valued at

Three chandeliers in said Hall,

Two marble vases,

Two Bradlee vases,

Glass and other ware,

Library, .

Furniture and safe,

Appleton Fund, .

Lyman Fund,

Lowell Fund,

Bradlee Fund, .

Twenty-two shares Boston and Worcester Rail-

#36,000 00
390 00
95 00
150 00
900 00
1,300 00
300 00
1,000 00
1,000 00
1,000 00
500 00
oad stock at cost, 2,458 50

$45,093 50

The only debt of the Society known to the Committee is a note secured
by mortgage on the real estate for fifteen thousand dollars, dated 18th May,
1844, payable in five years with interest, at the rate of five per cent, per
annum half yearly : but it is understood that there are claims against the
Society for unliquidated accounts for premiums awarded but not paid —
printing, dies for medals, alterations of the Hall, painting, &C- &c., amount-
ing to about $2,000. [Signed.]

The same committee also reported, that the certificate of the Bradlee
Fund, invested in the Massachusetts Hospital Life Insurance Company, had
been passed to the Treasurer.

The Special Committee, appointed to settle with the Treasurer of the
Mount Auburn Cemetery, reported that they had attended to that duty, and
received the sum of $3,500, and that a final settlement would be made on
the third Monday of the month, when a further amount might be expected.

It was Voted, That the Finance Committee invest the sum of $2,000
towards paying off the mortgage of the Society's Building.

Mr. C. M. Hovey, Chairman of the Library Committee, submitted the
Annual Report, which was accepted, and passed to the Executive Com-
mittee to fill the blank appropriation asked for, with such a snm as the Finan-
ces of the Society will admit of.

The Executive Committee reported the list of premiums offered for the
year 1848, with a revised Code of Regulations, which was accepted .

Ordered, That the list of premiums awarded for 1847, and those offered
for 1848, be printed and laid upon the table for distribution at the next
meeting.

Adjourned four weeks to February 5th.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

131

The following Lists of Premiums for 1848 were reported by the Com-
mittee for establishing Premiums, and approved by the Executive Com-
mittee : —

The Committee for establishing Premiums respectfully submit and rec-
ommend the following Schedule of Premiums for the year 1848. By order,
S. Walker, Chairman.

LIST OF PREMIUMS FOR 1848.

PROSPECTIVE PREMIUMS.

For objects to be originated subsequent to A. D. 1846, and which, after
a trial of five years, shall be deemed equal, or superior, in quality, and
other characteristics, to any now extant.

For the best Seedling Pear, the Society's large Gold Meda!
ued at ..... .

For the best seedling Apple, the Society's large Gold Medal
For the best Seedling Hardy Grape, the Society's large Gold
Medal, ......

For the best Seedling Plum, the Appleton Gold Medal,
For the best Seedling Cherry, the Lowell Gold Medal,
For the best Seedling Strawberry, the Lyman Plate,
For the best Seedling Raspberry, the Bradlee Plate,
For the best Seedling Hardy Rose, the Society's large Gold
Medal, ......

For the best Seedling Camellia Japonica, the Society's large

Gold Medal,

For the best Seedling Azalea Indica, the Lowell Gold Medal
For the best Seedhng Tree Pseonia, the Appleton Gold Medal
For the best Seedling Herbaceous Paeonia, the Lowell Gold
Medal, ......

For the best Seedling Potato, the Society's large Gold Medal

val-

$60 00

60 00

60 00
40 00
40 00

40 00
60 00

SPECIAL PRIZE LIST FOR PELARGONIUMS,

TO BE AWARDED AT THE EXHIBITION FIRST SATURDAY IN MAT.

For the best six dissimilar varieties, cultivated with superior

skill, in eight inch pots, open to all competitors, £5, . 25 00

For the second best six dissimilar varieties, cultivated with

superior skill in eight inch pots, open to all competitors, £2, 10 00
The above liberal prizes are offered by E. Beck, Esq., of Isleworth, near
London, a CorrespondingMember of the Society.

SPECIAL PRIZE LIST OF FRUITS.

TO BE AWARDED IN THE YEAR 1848, VIZ. : TWENTY PRIZES OF FIVE DOL-
LARS EACH.

2 prizes for the two best varieties and specimens of Summer Apples.
2 prizes for the two best varieties and specimens of Autumn Apples.

132 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

2 prizes for the two best varieties and specimens of Winter Apples.

2 prizes for the two best varieties and specimens of Summer Pears.

3 prizes for the two best varieties and specimens of Autumn Pears.

2 prizes for the two best varieties and specimens of Winter Pears.

3 prizes for the best varieties of Cherries.

2 prizes for the best varieties of Plums.

3 prizes for the best varieties of Peaches.

20 prizes, at $5 each, = $ 100.

The specimens presented for the above prizes shall consist of not less
than three specimens of each variety of Apples, Pears, and Peaches ; not
less than one dozen Plums, and two dozen Cherries ; all of which shall be
at the disposal of the Committee on Fruits.

PREMIUMS FOR FRUITS.

Amount appropriated. Four Hundred and Fifty Dollars.

For the best and most interesting exhibition of Fruits, during

the season, the Lowell Medal or Plate, valued at . $25 00

For the next best, the Bradlee Plate, valued at . . . 15 00

TO BE AWARDED AT THE ANNUAL EXHIBITION IN SEPTEMBER.

Apples. — For the best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each,

a premium of the Society's Plate, valued at . .25 00

For the second best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each,

a premium of the Appleton Silver Gilt Medal, . .10 00

For the third best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each, 5 00
Pears. — For the best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each,

a premium of the Lyman Plate, valued at . . .25 00

For the second best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each,

a premium of the Lowell Silver Gilt Medal, . . 10 00

For the third best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each, 5 00
Grapes. — For the best^ve varieties, two bunches each, the Lyman

Plate, . . . . . . . 15 00

For the best three varieties, two bunches each, the Bradlee Plate, 10 00

For the best two varieties, two bunches each, . . . 7 00

For the best one variety, two bunches, . . . 5 00

Assorted Fruit. — For the best basket of Fruit, of various kinds, 10 00

For the next best, 2d premium of . . . . 7 00

For the next best, 3d premium of . . . . 5 00

For the best dish of Apples, not less than twelve specimens of

one variety, a premium of . , . . . 6 00

For the second best, a premium of . . . . 4 00
For the best dish of Pears, not less than twelve specimens of

one variety, a premium of . . . . . 6 00

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

133

For the next best, a premium of . . . . 04 00

Assorted fruits in baskets shall not be entitled to any other than

the premium for such.
lEP The above premiums to be awarded on the first day of the Exhibition.

PREMIUMS DURING THE SEASON.
Apples. — For the best Summer Apples, on or before the 1st Sept

For the next best, a premium of . . .

For the best Fall Apples, on or before the 1st of Dec.

For the next best, a premium of . . .

For the best Winter Apples, on or before the 3d Sat. in Dec

For the next best, a premium of - .

Pears. — For the best collection of new Pears, not exhibited before
this year, a premium of the Society's Silver Gilt Medal,

For the next best, .....

For the best Summer Pears, on or before the 1st Sept.

For the next best, a premium of . . .

For the best Fall Pears, on or before the 1st Dec.

For the next best, a premium of . . .

For the best Winter Pears, on or before the 3d Sat. in Dec

For the next best, a premium of . . .

Cherries. — For the best specimen, not less than two quarts,

For the second best, a premium of .
Peaches. — For the best specimens grown under glass previous to
July 15, a premium of .

For the second best, a premium of .

For the best specimen grown in open culture,

For the second best, a premium of .
Nectarines. — For the best specimen of Nectarines,

For the second best do., a premium of
Quinces. — For the best specimens of the best kind of quinces,

For the second best, a premium of .
Plums. — For the best Plums, of the bestfiavor, not less than 2 qts

For the next best do., a premium of .
Gooseberries. — For the best flavored and finest specimens, two
boxes, ......

For the second best, a premium of .
Currants. — For the best flavored and finest specimens, two boxes,

For the second best, a premium of .
Raspberries. — For the best specimens of Raspberries, not less
than two boxes, . . ...

For the second best, a premium of .
Blackberries. — For the best specimens of Blackberries, not less
than two boxes, a premium of . . .

For the second best, a premium of .
Strawberries. — For the best specimens of Strawberries, not
less than two boxes, a premium of . .

VOL. XIV. — NO. III. 12

6 00
4 00
6 00
4 00
6 00
4 00

15 00
10 00
6 05
4 00
6 00
4 00
10 00
6 00
6 00
4 00

6 00
4 00
6 00
4 00
6 00

4 00

5 00
3 00

6 00
3 00

5 00
3 00

6 00

. m

5 00

. 10

7 00

134 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

For the second best, a premium of .

For the third best, a premium of .
Musk Melon. — For the best Musk Melon, a premium of

For the second best, a premium of .
Figs. — For the best specimen of Figs, a premium of

For the second best, a premium of .
Grapes. — For the best specimens and the^best varieties of Grapes
grown under glass previous to July 1st,

For the second best, a premium of .

For the best specimens and varieties of Grapes, grovs^n under
glass subsequently to July 1st,

For the second best, a premium of .
Grapes, (Native.) — For the best specimen and variety of Nati
Grapes, ......

For the second best, a premium of .

$450 00

in? The Committee on Fruit will hold a session to award the premiums
on Summer Apples and Pears, on the first Saturday in September.

On Autumn and Wi7iter Apples and Pears, on the third Saturday in De-
cember.

All Gratuities for Seedlings will be equal to the highest prize awarded
to that variety of fruit.

PREMIUMS FOR PLANTS, FLOWERS, AND DESIGNS.

Amount appropriated. Six Hundred and Fifty Dollars.

DISPLAY OF GREENHOUSE PLANTS, IN POTS, THROUGH THE SEASON.

For the best display of Greenhouse Plants through the season,

the Appleton Gold Medal, valued at . . . $40 00

For the second best display of do., the Society's Silver Gilt

Medal, valued at . . . . . , 15 00

Provided, however, that whatever amount may be awarded during the
season for the exhibition of Pot Plants, to the person who shall be entitled
to said medals, shall be deemed as constituting a part of their value.

DISPLAY OF GREENHOUSE PLANTS, IN POTS.

To be exhibited at the opening of the Hall, on the 1st Saturday in May :
Pelargoniums. — Class I. — For the best six new and rare varie-
ties, grown in eight-inch pots, a premium of . . $ 6 00
For the second best, . . . . . . 4 00

Class II. — For the best six varieties of any sort, grown in large

pots, a premium of . . . . . 6 00

For the second best, . . . . . . 4 00

Roses. — For the best six varieties of Tea, Bourbon, Noisette, or

Bengal, . . . . . . . 6 00

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

135

00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00
00

8 00
5 00

5 00
3 00

8 00

For the second best, ; . . . . . $4 00

For the third best, . . . . . . 2 00

Cut Flowers. — For the best display, a premium of
For the second best, ....

Fuchsias. — For the best six varieties, a premium of
For the second best, ....

Cactus. — For the best six varieties, a premium of
For the second best, ....

Calceolarias. — For the best six varieties, a premium of
For the second best, ....

Cinerarias. — For the best six varieties, a premium of
For the second best, ....

Heaths. — For the best varieties, a premium of .
For the second best, ....

Various Sorts. — For the best display of various sorts of Green-
house Plants, not less than twelve pots, a premium of
For the second best display, ....

Hyacinths. — Premiums to be awarded second Saturday in May.
For the best display, not less than twenty varieties, .
For the second best, .....

Tulips. — Premiums to be awarded the third Saturday in May.
For the best thirty distinct varieties, a premium of
For the second best, . . . . . . 6 00

For the third best, . . . . . . 3 00

Pansies. — Premiums to be awarded the fourth Saturday in May.

For the best twelve distinct varieties, a premium of . . 4 00

For the second best, . . . . . • 3 00

For the third best, . . . . . . 2 00

Hawthorns. — Premiums to be awarded the fourth Saturday in May.

For the best display, a premium of . . . . 3 00

For the second best, . . . . . . 2 00

Hardt Azaleas. — Premiums to be awarded fourth Saturday in May.

For the best display, a premium of . . . . 3 00

For the second best . . . . . . 2 00

Shrubbt Peonies. — Premiums to be awarded fourth Sat'dy in May.

For the best six varieties, a premium of . . . 5 00

For the second best,'|^. . . . . . 4 00

For the best display, . . . . . . 3 00

Herbaceous Peonies. — Premiums to be awarded 2d Sat. in June.
For the best twelve flowers, having regard to the number of

varieties, . . . . . . . 5 00

For the second best, . . . . . . 4 00

For the best display, . • . . . . 3 00

Pinks. — Premiums to be awarded third Saturday in June.

For the best six distinct varieties, a premium of . . 4 00

For the second best, . . . . . . 3 00

For the best display, . . . . • . 2 00

136

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Hardy Roses. — Premiums to be awarded third Saturday in June.

Hardy Roses.
Class I. — For the best thirty distinct varieties, a premium of
For the second best, ......

For the third best, ......

For the best display, ......

Class II. — For the best twelve distinct varieties, a premium of
For the second best, ......

For the third best, ......

Perpetual Roses.
Class III. — For the best ten varieties, a premium of

For the second best, ......

For the best display, ......

Prairie Roses.
Class III. — For the best display, not less than four varieties, .

For the second best, ......

Carnation and Picotee Pinks. — Premiums to be awarded third
Saturday in July.

For the best ten varieties, a premium of

For the second best, .....

For the best display, .....
Magnolias. — For the best display through the season,

For the second best, .....
Hardy Rhododendrons. — For the best display of the season.

For the second best, .....
Double Hollyhocks. — Premiums to be awarded .3d Sat. in July

For the best display, a premium of ...

For the second best, .....

For the third best, .....
Double Balsams. — Premiums to be awarded 2d Sat. in August

For the best display, a premium of .

For the second best, .....

For the third best, .....
Phloxes. — Premiums to be awarded third Saturday in August.

For the best ten distinct varieties, a premium of

For the second best, .....

For the third best, .....
German Asters. — Premiums to be awarded 2d Saturday in Sept

For the best display, a premium of .

For the second best, .....

For the third best, .....

Bouquets, Wreaths, Designs, &c.
Premiums to be awarded at the Annual Exhibition.
Vase Bouquets. — For the best pair suitable for the Bradlee Vases,
a premium of the Bradlee Plate, valued at

$8 00
6 00

4 00
3 00

5 00

3 00

2 00

5 00

4 00

3 00

4 00
3 00

5 00
4 00
3 00
3 00

2 00

3 00

2 00

3 00

2 00

1 00

3 00

2 00

1 00

6 00

4 00

3 00

4 00
3 00

2 00

10 00

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

137

For the second best, .....

For the best pair for the Society's Marble Vases,

For the second best, . ...

Parlor Bouquets. — For the best pair suitable for the parlor,

For the second best, .....

For the third best, .....

For the fourth best, .....
Pot Plants. — For the best display, of not less than 20 Pot Plants

For the second best, .....

For the third best, .....

For the fourth best, .....
Cockscombs. — For the best six pots, a premium of

For the second best, .....
Balsams. — For the best six pots, a premium of .

For the second best, .....
Dahlias. — Premiums to be awarded fourth Saturday in September

Division A.

Premier Prize. — For the best twelve dissimilar blooms, the So-
ciety's Silver Medal, .....

Specimen Bloom. — For the best flower, ....

Various Colors. — For the best yellow, buff, or orange ; purple
or maroon ; crimson or claret ; very dark ; white ; edged or
tipped ; scarlet ; pink or rose, a premium of $ 1 each,

Division B.

Class I. — For the best twenty-four dissimilar blooms, ,
For the second best, .....
Class II. — For the best eighteen dissimilar blooms,

For the second best, .....
Class III. — For the best twelve dissimilar blooms,
For the second best, .....
Herbaceous Perennials. — For the best display through the sea
son, the Society's Silver Medal, .
For the second best, a premium of .
For the third best, .....
Annuals. — For the best display through the season, the Society'
Silver Medal, .....

For the second best display, a premium of .
For the third best, .....
Camellias. — Premiums to be awarded second Saturday in Feb.
For the best twelve varieties of cut flowers, with foliage.
For the second best, .....
Chinese Primrose. — Premiums to be awarded 2d Saturday in Feb
For the best six varieties in pots, a premium of .
For the second best, .....

12*

. #6

, 12

. 10

5 00
3 00

8 00

3 00

CD.

138 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Greenhouse Azaleas. — Premiums to be awarded 2d Sat. in March.

For the best six varieties in pots, . . . . $6 00

For the second best, . . . . . . 4 00

Shrubby Plants. — For the best display, during the season, . 5 00
For the second best, . , . . . . 4 00

For the third best, . . . . . . 3 00

Premiums to be awarded at Weekly Exhibitions.

Amount appropriated. One Hundred and Tioenty-two Dollars, . 122 00
For the best six Pot Plants, of different varieties, . §2 00
For the second best, . . . . 1 00

For the best large Bouquet for vases or parlor, com-
posed of flowers gracefully arranged, . , 2 00
For the second best, . . . . 1 00
For the best pair of Bouquets, of any description, . 2 00
For the second best, . . . . 1 00

$650 00

PREMIUMS FOR VEGETABLES.

Amount appropriated, One Hundred and Fifty Dollars.
Asparagus. — For the earliest and best, not less than three bunches,

For the second best, a premium of .
Beets. — For the best (pure blood beet,) during the season, not

less than twelve roots, a premium of .
Broccoli. — For the best three heads, a premium of
Beans. — For the best and earliest peck of string beans, .

For the best and earliest Lima Beans, not less than 2 quarts.
For the best and earliest variety of shell beans,
Cucumbers. — For the best pair under glass, previous to the first
Saturday of June, a premium of ....
For the second best, a premium of ,
For the best and earliest, of open culture, a premium of
Cauliflowers. — For the best and largest, during the season, not
less than three heads, a premium of . . .

For the second best, a premium of .
Corn. — For the best and earliest sweet corn, not less than twelve

ears, . . . . , . . 3 00

For the second best, a premium of . . . . 2 00

Cabbage. — For the best drumhead cabbage, during the season,
not less than three heads, a premium of .
For the second best, a premium of .

For the best Savoy cabbage, during the season, not less than
three heads, a premium of . ....

For the second best, a premium of .
Egg Plants. — The best display, during the season, a premium of

For the'second best, a premium of .
Lettuce. — For the best six heads, before the 1st Saturday in July,
For the second best, a premium of . . .

Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

139

Potatoes. — For the best ncio seedling, of superior quality, for the
table, ......

For the best and earliest peck, previous to August 1,
For the second best, a premium of .
Peas. — For the best and earliest peck in June, a premium of
Rhubarb. — For the largest and best, previous to the first Satur
day in July, not less than twelve stalks, a premium of
For the second best, a premium of .
Squashes. — For the best pure Canada squashes, not less than six
in' number, a premium of .
For the greatest variety exhibited during the season,
Tomatoes. — For the best and earliest, not less than one dozen.
Vegetables. — For the best display and greatest variety at the
weekly exhibitions, during the season, a premium of
For the second best, a premium of .

For the best display and greatest variety at the annual exh
bition, ......

For the second best, a premium of .

For any new variety of vegetables suitable for the table, an(
worthy of cultivation, other than seedling potatoes.
Celery. — For the best and largest blanched, not less than six roots
a premium of .... .

For the second best, a premium of .
Carrots. — For the best exhibited, a premium of .

$10

5 00

5 00
3 00
2 00

$150 00

RULES AND REGULATIONS.

1. All Fruits, Flowers, and Vegetables, offered for prizes, are to be the
growth of the competitors.

2. Articles exhibited for Prizes must be placed in the Stands by 11 o'clock,
A.M.

3. Contributors of Fruits, for exhibition or premium, are requested to
present the same in dishes or baskets of the Society, or in suitable baskets
or boxes of their own.

4. After the articles are arranged, they will be under the exclusive charge
of the Committees, and not even the owners will have liberty to remove, or
touch them until the exhibition is closed, when they will be delivered as the
contributors may direct.

5. No Flower, Fruit, or Vegetable, will be entitled 1o a prize unless it
possesses points of superiority, and the Committees have the discretionary
power of withholding Prizes, if, in their opinion, the articles exhibited do
not merit them.

6. Plants in Pots to be entitled to Prizes must give evidence of skilful
culture, in the profusion of bloom, and the beauty, symmetry, and vigor of
the specimens.

7. Successful competitors will be expected to furnish remarks on their

140 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

mode of cultivation, if peculiar ; and candidates for the Fruit Prizes will be
required to present specimens for trial.

8. Premiums can only be awarded to exhibitors who have complied with
the published Rules and Regulations.

9. No article for which a premium has been once awarded, can receive
another during the season, with exception of such Fruits as are included in
the " Special Prize List."

10. The Committees are authorized to award Extra Prizes for any new
or rare Fruits, Flowers, Vegetables, Plants, or Designs of merit, and for
which no Premium has been offered.

11. The Fruit Committees, in making their awards, will consider the
flavor, beauty, and size of the specimens, and each of these properties as
compared with a fair standard of the variety.

12. In deciding on the merits of a Fruit or Vegetable, its value for gen-
eral cultivation will betaken into account, but SMpeWor specimens of any
good variety will not be excluded from Prizes, even though they may not
flourish in all situations.

13. When specimens are presented for a name, the exhibitor is requested
to communicate all the information he possesses, as to the origin, and the
local appellation.

14. It will be the duty of the Committees to exclude from Exhibition all
inferior specimens. Also, all sMch Designs as, in their opinion, evince an
incorrect taste.

15. The Committees have power to change the time of exhibition, for any
article, if an early or a late season renders such change necessary, giving
seasonable notice thereof to the Society.

16. Any person to whom a Prize has been awarded, whether in money,
medals, or plate, may receive either, of like valuation, at his option ; all pre-
mium, not applied for within one year from the time of award, shall revert
to the Society for its own use and benefit.

17. In order to afford the Committees an opportunity to examine and re-
port on the articles exhibited, no other person can be admitted to, or remain
in, the Hall, between the hours of eleven and a half and twelve, on the days
of exhibition.

18. The Society earnestly invites the cooperation and competition of cul-
tivators. The Prizes are open to all, and the Society is instituted for the
benefit of all.

DI? The foregoing Schedule of Prizes, having received the approval of
the Executive Committee, and the regulations confirmed by a vote of the
Society, is now published as the List of Premiums for the current year.

February 5th. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day, —
the President in the Chair.

The Special Committee for settling with the Mount Auburn Cemetery
reported that the amount of the Society's proportion of sales for 1847 was
$4,495 09, and that they had received the further sum of $995 09.

Mr. Newhall, Chairman of the Committee on Medals, reported that they
had caused to be struck, at the Mint in Philadelphia, Fift_y Silver Medals,

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 141

of the value of Five Dollars each ; and it was voted that the same remain
in the hands of the Chairman, to be called for as the Society may require
them. The Committee were also authorized to procure gilt medals if called
for by the Society.

It was also ordered that the Treasurer cause appropriate inscriptions to
be made on such medals as may have been awarded for prizes.

It was Voted, that the blank in the report of the Committee on the Li-
brary be filled with the sum of $ 100.

The following members were elected : — ^Daniel Leach, Roxbury ; E. S.
Rand, Dedham ; Ed. Burns, Brighton ; and D. S. Smalley.

Adjourned four weeks, to March 4th.

Exhibited. — Fruit : By the President of the Society, from S. J. Gustin,
New Jersey, specimens of the Monmouth Pippin ; also from Wm. Dana, of
Roxbury, apples without name ; the specimens of the former deficient in
flavor, owing, probably, to the improper mode of packing, or from having
been kept in an unfavorable place. From Dr. Wight, several specimens of
apples received from R. Mattison, Bennington, Vt., none of which were of
remarkable quality. From S. W. Cole, from various sources. Fall Pippin,
20 Ounce, Mother, Jewett's fine Red, and Detroit apples : the three first
named were handsome, and of superior quality ; the Mother is decidedly
a remarkable apple. From John Owen, R. I. Greening, Newtown Pippin,
and other apples.

February 12ih. Exhibited. — Flowers : The exhibition to-day of camel-
lias and primroses for premium, though not bringing together many com-
petitors, displayed some very fine flowers of the camellia, and some remark-
ably beautiful specimens of primroses. The latter were from Mr. Cadness
and Mr. Quant ; Mr. Cadness sent three plants of the double purple, and
three of the double white, each with at least eight or ten trusses of their
beautiful flowers fully expanded.

From the President of the Society, twenty-eight varieties of camellias,
viz. : Donckela^rz, americ^na, Coquettii, concinna, Campomol^nda, Henri
Favre, orchroleuca, Duchesse d'Orleans, and five seedlings ; among the
new varieties were C. Teutonia, deep flesh-color, striped with red, a re-
markably fine variet)"- ; C. Colletw ; C. nitida; C. peregrina, curiously mot-
tled and striped ; C. cruciata, beautifully variegated with white ; also Abiiti-
lon venosum, fine specimens of Chorizema varium, and a long branch of a
seedling Acacia from A. spectabilis, much like its parent.

From Messrs. Hovey & Co., sixteen varieties of camellias, viz. : C. ira-
bricata, myrtifolia, Henri Favre, elegans, FeastiV, delicatissima, Floyii
Donckelaen', corallina, decora, tricolor, speciosa, florida, &c.

From John Cadness, from the Garden of J. L. L. F. Warren, thirteen
varieties of camellias, as follows : — Ochroleuca, candidissima, old white,
Hume's blush, eximia, Mrs. Abby Wilder, Lowu, imbricata, rubra plena,
Leeana superba, Henri Favre, &c. ; also, three pots of double purple, and
three plants of the double white Chinese primrose, finely grown, and
plants of Boronia anemoneflora, and B. pinnata. From W. Quant, ten pots
of white and purple Chinese primroses.

142 Answers to Correspondents.

AWARD OF PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES.

Camellias. — For the best twelve distinct varieties, to J. Cadness, a
premium of $ 8.

For the second best, to Messrs. Hovey & Co., $ 5.

A gratuity to the President, for fine flowers, $ 8.
Chinese Primulas. — A gratuity to John Cadness, for fine specimens, $3.

A gratuity to W. Quant, for fine specimens, $ 3.

Art. V. Answers to Correspondents,

White Lagerstrcemia. — Is there a White Lagerstroemia? I see it in
Prince's Catalogue. [Not to our knowledge. — Ed."]

Gesnera zebrina. R. C. Wood. — The plant you had is undoubtedly
the true kind ; there is no other species at present introduced which has a
similar leaf — so peculiarly marked — from whence its name ; but the proba-
bility is, that your specimen has never been well grown ; to see it in its real
beauty, it requires the temperature of the stove after the month of Sep-
tember; in the greenhouse, the flowers rarely open, or, if they do, they are, as
you say yours were, " blush or dingy white." Until we placed it in a
high temperature, we thought it quite worthless, except in regard to its fine
foliage ; but, the past antumn, we have had spikes of flowers ten inches
long, and of a bright scarlet. A correspondent, in a previous volume, (XI.
p. 58,) has given excellent directions to grow^ it to perfection, to which we
would refer our correspondent.

Gladiolus pudibundus. R. C Wood. — This fine variety has bright
pink flowers, similar to Colvilh't, while G. blanda has while flowers with a
deep red stripe in each petal. You will be at no loss to tell which of
the two your plants are. Some species and varieties of Gladiolus throw off
small perfect bulbs, like the G. natal6nsis, while others, like the G. cardi-
nalis, push out a kind of sucker bulb ; the latter, if separated from the pa-
rent when too small, are rather difficult to root, and require much care to
do it successfully. The best way is, to let them remain two years, when
they will acquire sufficient strength to grow readily.

Veronica speciosa. R. C. Wood.— This plant should be headed down
at this season of the year — at least the strong shoots — repotted, and placed
ia a warm situation in the greenhouse. If properly treated, it will make
a most showy ornament during the fall months. In the stove, we have
had it in flower all the winter, and, at the moment we write, several
plants have strong spikes of its rich violet purple flowers fully expanded.

Verbenas. A Subscriber. — Twelve of the finest verbenas are the fol-
lowing: — Feast's Crimson, Feast's Purple, Gazelle, Suzette, Eclipse,
Gem, Julia, variabilis, Rosy Cluster, Feast's White, Dove-Eye, and
Othello.

Horticultural Memoranda. 143

HORTICULTURAL MEMORANDA

FOR MARCH.

FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines, in the greenhouse or grapery, will now be pushing vigor-
ously, and, by the latter part of the month, will show their flower-buds.
As soon as the eyes are all well broken, the shoots should be tied firmly
up to the trellis. Syringing should also be continued, every day, except
in damp weather. As soon as the shoots show their flower-buds, dis-
budding should be commenced ; — that is, to rub oflT every new shoot which
is not wanted to bear fruit, or form a spur ; on vines pruned on what is
called the close system, these shoots will be quite numerous, and, after
selecting that which promises best, the others must be taken off. On vines
pruned on the long spur method, all the shoots at the base should be rubbed
off, unless wanted to make a spur for another year. Some of the most for-
ward vines will also need topping before the close of the month, and will
also require to be neatly tied in, at a regular angle from the main stem,
and tied firmly, to prevent their being broken, as they often are, by their
own weight. [See our Diary in the last volume, for temperature.] Vines in
pots should now be liberally watered. Vines in cold houses will require to
be uncovered the latter part of the month, and, if the weather is warm, the
house should be well aired in the middle of the day. Isabella and other
hardy grapes may now be pruned.

Root-grafting may still be done : the roots should be carefully placed
in boxes, and removed to a cool place, until the season for planting in
April.

Raspberry plantations maybe uncovered the last of the month, should the
weather be mild.

Strawberry beds may be also partially uncovered, if the season is favor-
able.

Scions may yet be cut, placing them in a cool place.

Grafting, where there is a great deal to do, may be commenced the last
of the month.

Pruning orchards should now be attended to before the hurry of spring
work commences.

Pear, apple, and quince seeds, not planted last fall, should be got into the
ground the first favorable opportunity.

FLOWER DEPARTMENT.

Camellias will now be making their new growth, and will require liberal
supplies of water at the root, and frequent syringing over the foliage ; in-
deed, the latter operation should not be omitted whenever the weather is
fine. If there is danger of burning from the glass, the plants should either
be shaded by a curtain of some kind, or the glass can be coated with whit-
ing ; the latter mode we generally adopt. If any of the plants are crooked,

144 Horticultural Memoranda.

now is the time to bring them into good shape, by cutting in the branches,
and heading down long shoots. Inarching and grafting may be performed
now.

Pelargoniums will now be coming forward, and care should be taken that
they have an abundance of air : if this is neglected, the shoots will be drawn
up, and rendered unfit for producing vigorous heads of flowers. Water
occasionally with guano, and fumigate as soon as the green fly appears.
Keep the shoots tied well down in order to make bushy plants.

Achimenes of all the different kinds should now be potted off in order to
get a good stock ; no plants are gayer all summer than these, and no col-
lection should be without a good number of plants.

Cinerarias and Calceolarias will require repotting again.
Gloxinias and Gesneras will now be growing freely, and should be re-
potted the last part of the month.

Roses will now be in full bloom, and will require libei-al supplies of wa-
ter ; syringe freely, fumigate with tobacco for the green fly, and with sul-
phur for the Red Spider, which is often troublesome to roses.

Veronica speciosa and Lindleyana should now be repotted ; if the plants
are straggling, they should be headed in.

Chinese P?'mroses should be shifted again, if fine large plants are wanted.
Dahlias for early blooming may now be placed in the greenhouse ot hot-
bed. [See the excellent article at p. 27.]

Hyacinth and Tulip beds should be uncovered the latter part of the month,
or as soon as danger of severe frost is over.

Neapolitan Violets should be repotted, and they will continue for a long
time in bloom.

Cadi should now be shifted into larger pots.

Fuchsias will continue to require attention : if the plants are old ones,
head them well in, with the exception of Corymbiflora and fulgens, and
repot in good rich soil.

Heaths, Epacrises, and New Holland plants , shouii be repotted if they
require it.

Annual Jiower seeds of such kinds as Ten-week stocks. Phlox Druramondii,
Petunias, Balsams, Asters, Lotus jacobasus, Pansies, Stevia, Brachycome,
&c., should now be planted in boxes, and placed in the greenhouse or hotbed.
Gladioluses for early blooming should now be potted.
Carnations, and other plants in frames, should be well aired in fine
weather.

Heliotropes, Salvias, Scarlet Gerajiiums, Verbenas, Lantanas, and other
showy plants, should now be propagated for a stock for bedding out in
spring.

Calysiegia pubescens. — The rhezomes or roots of this fine plant should
now be potted in a light free soil.

Ipomaa Learii should now be propagated for a stock for planting out in
the border in summer, where it is one of the most brilliant things in the
garden.

THE MAGAZINE

O F

HORTICULTURE.

APRIL, 1848.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. Oil the Culture of the Pear 071 the Apple. By James
Weed, Bloomington, Iowa.

Mr. Humrickhouse's article on this subject, (Vol. XII. p.
393,) seems likely to consign the apple, as a stock for pears,
to entire oblivion. Is this right 7 It is remarkable that the
value of the quince, as a stock for the pear, has not been more
justly appreciated until within the last few years. In your
Retrospective View of Horticulture for 1847, (Vol. XIII. p. 3,)
you say " it is well known that many sorts of pears Avill not
unite kindly with the quince, and the consequence is, that, in
a year or two, the tree languishes and dies. This^ by some,
is set down as proof that the quince will not answer.^'

Of all the varieties of pears now in cultivation, it seems a
large proportion, one half, perhaps, will not grow at all on
the quince. Some are described as growing indifferently, and
being short-lived ; others are said to "succeed well," while a
few are remarkable for growing freely. Among varieties known
to grow freely, will not the quality of durability be found to
pertain to diiferent varieties in a degree worthy the attention
of cultivators ? Some five or six years ago, we saw it several
times stated in periodicals, that the age of the pear on the
quince was six or eight years ; now, it is extended to twenty-
five, and may we not yet discover varieties that will endure
for a period of fifty years ?

We have been watching for information relative to the cul-
ture of the pear on the quince, and Mr. Rivers's article was
very welcome and instructive. Mr. R. mentions three vari-
eties which he uses for double working, one of which, Beurre

VOL. XIV. — NO. IV. 13

146 Culture of the Pear on the Apple.

d'Amalis, we happened to possess, and, on examination, we
found we had inserted about one dozen buds of this variety
the previous autumn, and these were, at least, 100 per cent,
larger, on an average, than twelve or fifteen other varieties in-
serted at the same time, and much larger than Williams's
Bon Chretien, which succeeded very well. This discovery
afforded some self-gratification : though but jnst embarked in
the busmess of horticulture on the other side of " the great
Father of Waters," we were one year in advance of Mr. Riv-
ers's article, and this we set down as one of the benefits of
having more than just a few of the best varieties, in order to
prosecute the business of fruit culture successfully.

This quality of some varieties to grow freely or indifferently
on the quince, while this stock is entirely obnoxious to oth-
ers, has suggested some reflections in relation to the culture of
the pear on the apple, thorn, etc. It is said that the quality
of some sorts of pears is most improved by grafting on the
quince, and others are, perhaps, deteriorated. Does this im-
provement result merely from the effect of dwarfing, or does
it depend on some peculiarity or relation the variety bears to
the quince stock? Suppose it were ascertained that the Duch-
esse d'Angouleme was most improved by the quince stock,
would not this improvement be extended, in some degree, to
other varieties by double working on the Duchesse d'Angou-
leme ? We think there is yet much to be learned in relation
to the peculiarities of varieties before it can be ascertained
under precisely what circumstances each variety can be most
happily cultivated : and the apple stock may yet prove of ser-
vice in its own way.

Mr. Humrickhouse's experiments we regard as too limited to
negative the importance of the apple stock altogether, and
only prove negatively, that, in twenty varieties, six failed to
grow at all. Some sixteen grew but indifferently, and were
short-lived : and positively three or four varieties grew tol-
erably well ; Williams's Bon Chretien appeared to be not at
all dwarfed, but promised to make standard trees, and the
Seckel, in accordance with Mr. Ernst's testimony, produced
fruit of more than twice the usual size, and of superior llavor.
Now if the Seckel, — until recently acknowledged " the best
pear in the world," — can be thus improved by the apple, who

Culture of the Pear on the Apple. 147

can inform ns that Swan's Orange would not be similarly
improved by the same means, or that other varieties would
not be improved by double working on the Seckel, or some
other variety which may yet be found to grow well and unite
kindly on the apple ?

Had experiments like Mr. Humrickhouse's been instituted
fifty years ago, to ascertain whether the pear would succeed
on the quince, and conducted with twenty varieties first at
hand, what proportion would have grown but indifferently, if
at all, and what chance would there have been to have got
even one in that number to grow freely on the quince 7 It is cer-
tain that many of the varieties which grow most freely on the
quince have been originated since that period, and present a
new creation in relation to this subject.

We had been grafting the Pound, Williams's Bon Chretien,
and two other varieties, the names of which were lost, on
apple roots, two years before Mr. Humrickhouse's article ap-
peared, and with similar success to his, except that, in one of
the nameless sorts, we found a much more certain grower than
Williams's Bon Chretien. Our subsequent trials with this
sort have proved that it grows nearly as well on the apple
root as the apple itself. Last spring, we grafted some eighty
varieties on the apple above ground. Of these, as we expect-
ed, many failed, or made but a poor growth ; but a few seemed
to grow as well as if on the pear stock. Edwards's Henrietta
succeeded best ; a seedling, set by mistake, grew nearly as
well ; Aston Town, Althorpe Crassane, Prince's St. Germain,
Fondante d'Automne, Cross, Dunmore, St. Andre, and Am-
brosia, I noted as growing freely. Edwards's Elizabeth, Ana-
nas d'Ete, Van Mons Leon le Clerc, and some others, made
a tolerable growth. It may be proper to state, that the scions
were not all in the best order, and many, which barely grew,
may make a much better growth next year ; and some allow-
ance might justly be made for working above ground; a goodly
number of scions of the Beurre Diel in good order in this man-
ner proved almost an entire failure, while Mr. H. had tolera-
b e success with this variety on the root.

Mr. Humrickhouse suggests the use of a long scion with a
view to establishing the tree on its own roots, but, if we mis-
take not, we need more extended experiments of precisely the

148 Culture of the Pear on the Apple.

character of his own to show what varieties will grow on the
apple, and what most readily strike root, and promise to make
standard trees.

In your review of commercial gardening for the year 1847,
(Vol. XIV. p. 11,) you notice an extensive nursery in Wiscon-
sin. We have been, for some time, engaged in what wc re-
gard a laudable enterprise in a new country like this, viz., in
making a collection of all the desirable varieties of fruits cul-
tivated in the United States, and if, as it appears, there is a
more extensive or a better selection of varieties in Wisconsin,
than is embraced in the catalogue we sent you some time ago,
we wish you would please inform us where it is located, as
we were under the expected necessity of sending to the east-
ern cities for our future supplies.

Bloombigton, Iowa, Feb. 14, 1848.

We are gratified in offering so good an exposition of the art
of horticulture in the far west, where, but a few years since,
no fruit trees, save those indigenous to the prairies and wood-
lands of that region, were to be found. It is, at once, a con-
vincing proof of the ardor of our people in overcoming every
obstacle to success, and of the diffusion of a taste for flowers
and fruits even at so remote a distance from the great centre
of horticultural improvement in this country.

The hints and suggestions of Mr. Weed are timely, and of
importance ; though we must admit that we have not much
faith in the apple as a general stock for the pear, even to the
extent of the quince, still we would, by no means, condemn
it, but, on the contrary, we would urge all amateurs, as well
as gardeners and nurserymen, who can spare the time, to try
further experiments with a view to arrive at more certain re-
sults, and through a greater number of years, than has yet
been attempted. We certainly agree with Mr. Weed, that
the failure of a few in this early stage of experiment, should
not induce us to wholly give up further trial. We commend
our correspondent's remarks to the especial attention of every
cultivator. The collection alluded to at p. 11, as existing in
Wisconsin, was an error. In the multiplication of new states,
we had almost forgotten that of Iowa, and, while our corre-
spondent's catalogue lay before us, without reflection we

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Phims. 149

placed his collection in Wisconsin, a mistake which we now
most cheerfully correct. Mr. Weed deserves well of the cul-
tivators of his adopted state, who are making plantations of
fruit trees, for his exertions in the introduction of most of the
really fine varieties of fruit. — Ed.

Art. II. Descriptions and Engravings of Select Varieties
of Plums. By the Editor.

In our last volume, (XIII. p. 529,) we commenced a series
of articles descriptive of all the choicest varieties of plums, in
the same style in which our descriptions of pears have been
given. Four new and superior kinds were then figured, and
we now have the pleasure of adding four more to the num-
ber. Our object will be, as with the pear, not only to de-
scribe and figure the several kinds, but to add all the syn-
onymes under which they are known, in order that the
existing confusion in the nomenclature of the plum may be
cleared up.

5. Washington. Pomological Magazine, Vol. I. pi. 16.

Bolmar's Washington. Guide to the Orchard.

I3olmar, -i

New Washington, \ Lond. Hort. Soc. Cat. 3d. Ed.

Franklin, 3

Superior Green Gage, i

Superior Gage, \ ^^ ^"""^ American collections.

The Washington plum {fig. 14,) deservedly holds the high-
est rank among the numerous varieties which have been yet
produced : nearly equalling the Green Gage in flavor, and far
surpassing it in size and beauty, it has, to a considerable ex-
tent, taken the place of that old and excellent plum. The
tree is also of vigorous habit, with a broad and ample foliage,
quite unlike any of the kinds previously known.

The history of the Washington is very well known, though
its origin is involved in some obscurity. Mr. Floy, in his
edition of Lindley's Guide to the Orchard, states that it sprang
13*

150

Descripllons of Select Varieties of Plums.

from the root of a grafted tree in New York, which had been
destroyed by lightning below the graft ; a few suckers came

up from the root, and
these were sold in New
York market. Mr. Bol-
mar was the purchaser
of one of them, and
when his tree came
into bearing, he re-
quested Mr. Floy to
call and see it ; this he
did, and the beauty of
the foliage, as well as
the immense size and
beauty of the fruit, sur-
prised him. Mr. Bol-
mar gave him buds,
from which he propa-
gated the variety, and

nursery : he also had a drawing made of the fruit at that time,
(1818,) which is now in his possession.

The late Mr. Prince also gives an account of it in the Pom.
Manual, where he states that the variety was well known in
Flushing about the year 1824, at which period there were
several trees of "the thickness of a man's thigh," and that it
was cultivated, for a long time, under the name of the Superior
Gage. He was unable to trace it any farther than Flushing,
and he had strong evidence that it was one of the numerous
seedlings which his father raised about the year 1790, from
the Green Gage, when the Imperial Gage, Red Gage, and
other fine varieties, were originated from the same lot of seeds.

The Washington is of exceedingly vigorous growth, and^
consequently, does not come into bearing very early ; but, by
judicious pruning of the branches, and occasional pruning of
the roots, young trees may be brought much earlier into bear-
ing than usual. It is a great and constant bearer when it
once begins to fruit, and the branches frequently need propping
up to prevent their being broken by the weight of fruit. Some

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Plums. 151

of the largest specimens from vigorous trees have measured
six and a half or seven inches in circumference.

Fruity large, about two and a quarter inches long, and two
and an eighth of an inch in diameter, roundish oval, largest
in the middle, and tapering to each end, with a distinct but
shallow suture extending half round : Skin, fair, smooth, dull
yellow, inclining to orange in some specimens, dotted and mar-
bled with crimson on the sunny side, and covered with a thin
lilac bloom : Stem, medium length, about three quarters of an
inch, rather stout, and inserted in a shallow cavity : Flesh,
yellow, rather firm and melting, separating freely from the
stone: Jtiice, abundant, rich, sugary, sprightly, and luscious:
Stone, medium size, oval, acute at each end, deeply furrowed,
and nearly even at the edges. Ripe the last of August and
beginning of September.

Wood, stout, short-jointed, and slightly downy.

6. Saint Martin Rouge. Bon Jardinier.

Coe's Fine Late Red. Hort. Soc. Cat. 3d Ed.

Saint Martin, of some French collections.

Red Saint Martin. Pom. Manual.

Pninier de St. Martin. N. Duhamel.

Coe's Late Red. Fruits and Fruit Trees of America.

This fine plum {fig- 15,) has been erroneously named, in
England, Coe's Fine Late Red,
from the fact that it was brought
to notice by Mr. Coe, as a new
seedling; but it subsequently
proved to be the old Saint Mar-
tin Rouge, of French collec-
tions: instead, however, of drop-
ping the new name, it has been
improperly retained, and is de-
scribed under this cognomen in
the third edition of the Cata-
logue of the London Horticul-
tural Society. Mr. Prince and
Mr. Kenrick have both retained

♦Vi« t:"......^„u TIT Fig.lb. Saint Martin Rouffe.

the 1- rench name, and, believ-

ing this to be its proper one, we have also adopted it, not

152 Descriptio7is of Select Varieties of Plums.

wishing to give greater publicity to a palpable error of the
Society's Catalogue.

The Saint Martin Rouge is a very superior late plum, much
resembling the Reine Claude both in shape, color, and size,
and, like that, a high-flavored and delicious fruit, coming in
about the middle of October, when, with the exception of the
Golden Drop and Frost Gage, there are no fine plums : it fre-
quently hangs upon the tree till injured by frosts.

Fruity medium size, about one and three quarter inches long,
and one and five eighths in diameter, of roundish, regular
form, with a distinct but rather shallow suture on one
side, ending in a considerably depressed point at the apex :
Stem., rather long, about three quarters of an inch, slender,
and inserted in a small cavity : Skin, dull purplish red, little
spotted with yellowish dots, and covered with a thin violet
bloom : Flesh., yellow, little firm, but very melting, and slightly
adhering to the stone : Juice., abundant, rich, saccharine,
vinous, sprightly, and high-flavored : Stone, oval, rather small,
nearly smooth. Ripe in October, and keeps well.

Wood, rather slender, downy.

7. Cooper's. Coxa's View, &cc.

Cooper's Large Red. Pomohgical Manual.

Cooper's Large. Guide to the Orchard, Am. Ed.

Smith's Orleans. Fruits and Fruit Trees of America.

Smith's Orleans. Pomological Manual.

Violet Perdrigon, i , . . . „ .

„ J n , T} 5- Incorrectly, of some American collections.

Red Magnum Bonum, J •"

No plum of American origin has been so greatly confused
in its nomenclature as this, {^fig. 16.) Coxe first described it
in his excellent work, A View of the Cultivation of Fruit
Trees, &c. as long ago as 1817, and states that "it was pro-
duced from the stone of an Orleans plum planted by Mr. Jo-
seph Cooper, of Gloucester county. New Jersey." His de-
scription is complete, with one important omission, viz., the
adherence or non-adherence of the flesh to the stone ; and from
this cause has arisen much of the confusion now existing in
regard to this variety.

In our volume for 1843, (IX. p. 410,) is a full account of

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Plums. 153

Smith's Orleans plum, by Mr. Downing, in which he attempt-
ed to prove the existence of such a fruit; but, unable to refer
it to the original description of that variety in Prince's Pomo-
logical Manual^ on account of the latter being a free stone
variety, he wrote to Mr. Prince for additional information
upon that important point ; Mr. Prince immediately referred
to the original description of it by his father, and thought it
" not unlikely that he, in copying, mighthave altered or trans-
posed a word or two," and, upon this statement, Mr. Down-
ing at once inferred that he
had identified the plum, so
generally cultivated under
half a dozen synonymes, as
the Smith's Orleans, of Prince.
In a note to his article, we
entirely dissented from his
conclusions, remarking that
we were in want of further
information, which when ob-
tained, we should lay before
our readers. We are now
fully prepared to do so.

It has been our belief, that
Smith's Orleans was a misno-
mer, and that it was identi-
cal with the variety known
as Cooper's plum, and described by Coxe, Kenrick, and Man-
ning.

In the spring of 1831 or '32, we received, from Messrs.
Prince of Flushing, several plum trees, and, among them, Coop-
er's Large Red. The tree was remarkable for its growth, and,
in consequence, it did not produce fruit for six or eight years.
When it came into bearing, we exhibited the fruit, and were
told, by some cultivators, that it was Smith's Orleans, by oth-
ers, Duane's Purple, and finally, in 1843, when we had some
beautiful specimens, by Mr. Downing, that it was the true
Violet Perdrigon ; but, in every instance, we denied this, and
not only referred to Mr. Prince, as the source from whence
we obtained it, but to Coxe, with Avhose description it ex-

Fig.X^, Cooper's Red.

154 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Plums.

actly corresponded. Subsequently to this, the account of
Smith's Orleans, before alluded to, was published. The fact
that all the Smith's Orleans have proved to be like ours, and
also the fact, which came out in Mr. Prince's reply, that it
was a cling, and not a free stone, and the circumstance that
our tree was received about the same time that the published
account appeared in the Po7n. Manual, convinced us that the
Smith's Orleans was but a new synonyme of the Cooper.
Other peculiarities, such as the luxuriance of the tree, which
Coxe mentions, and also a disposition of the fruit to rot, were
sufficient to prove, to any pomologist, that it could be no other
than the Cooper.

We had intended, some time ago, to have prepared an arti-
cle upon the subject, in order to establish the correct name of
this plum ; but, we trust, though late, the confusion which
has so long existed may now be cleared up.

The Cooper is one of the largest of our blue plums, of hand-
some appearance, and of excellent quality. The tree bears to a
fault ; so much so, that the fruit, which quite clothe the branch-
es, press upon each other so as to cause their decay, especially
in wet weather. The tree is remarkably luxuriant, often pro-
ducing shoots eight feet long in a season, with few lateral
branches or spurs, and it may readily be distinguished, by its
peculiar growth, from other plum trees.

Fruit, large, about two and a quarter inches long, and two
inches in diameter, of oval oblong form, largest at the base,
narrowing a little to the apex, which is distinctly depressed,
with a distinct suture extending half round : Skin, rich deep
purplish red, paler in the shade, covered with small, golden
specks, and a rich azure bloom, which is easily rubbed off:
Stem, short, about half an inch long, slender, and deeply in-
serted in a very large cavity : Flesh, yellow, tender, and
closely adhering to the stone : Juice, plentiful, with a sprightly,
vinous, and excellent flavor : Stone, large, thick, ovate. Ripe
end of August and beginning of September.

Wood, strong, stout, nearly smooth.

8. Thomas. Mag. of Hart., Vol. VII. p. 388.

The Thomas plum {fig. 17,) originated in the garden of
Wm. Thomas, Esq., of Boston, and the tree first produced

On the Cultivatioyi of the Mushroom.

155

fruit when quite young, in 1840 or '41, at which time Mr.
Thomas kindly gave us buds for propagation. It was
an accidental seedling, which
sprang up in his garden, and
bore when only seven or eight
years old. In general appear-
ance, it resembles Denyer's Vic-
toria, having the same delicate
amber or salmon-colored skin,
but of larger size, and of supe-
rior flavor. The tree is vigor-
ous and productive, and bears
early.

Fruit, large, about two inches
long, and one and three quar-
ters in diameter, of oblong form,
flattened at the apex, tapering
to each end, with a shallow
suture, one half larger than the
other : Skin, dark amber color, beautifully mottled and shaded
with bright red on the sunny side near the apex, profusely
sprinkled with white dots, and covered with a thin whitish
bloom : Stem, medium length, about half an inch, rather stout,
and deeply inserted in a contracted cavity : Flesh, deep yel-
low, half-melting, and separating from the stone : Juice abun-
dant, sweet, and pleasantly flavored : Stone, rather large,
roundish ovate, thick, and light-colored. Ripe in September.

Wood rather stout, and slightly downy.

17. Thomas.

Art. III. On the Cultivation of the Mushroom. By J. Ken-
nedy, Gardener to S. T. Jones, Esq., Staten Island, N. Y.

Sir, — I have more than once been surprised, that, amongst
the many valuable articles which appear monthly in the pages
of your magazine, on the various branches of Floriculture and
Horticulture, nothing, so far as I have seen, has been said

156 On the Cultivation of the Mushroom.

on the cultivation of the mushroom ; and, as it is an old ac-
quaintance of mine, and one which I consider deserving a
prominent place in the vegetable department, especially du-
ring the winter months, I shall take the liberty of throwing
out a few hints on its culture, which may not be unaccepta-
ble to at least some of your readers. My mode of culture dif-
fers in some minor points from that in general practice, but as
it possesses the advantages of being both cheap and simple,
I hope it may lead to a more extensive culture of this delicious
vegetable.

Early in the month of November last, I erected a shelf
eighteen feet long by four wide, and one foot six inches deep,
in a basement, underneath a row of lean-to buildings on the
north side of a vinery wall. The bottom of the shelf is ele-
vated eighteen inches from the floor, and, in forming it, I left
a cavity of one inch between each board, for the purpose of
drainage, as well as to allow the heat from fermenting materi-
als, placed underneath, to pass freely up into the bed : the shelf
being completed, my bed was formed as follows : — I first
shook a light layer of litter from the barn-yard, over the bot-
tom; then four inches of horse-droppings free from the litter, and
previously exposed in a dry airy place, in order that very lit-
tle moisture may be in it at the time of using for forming the
bed. I then put over this two inches of sandy loam, which I
beat down firmly ; and again put on four inches of horse-drop-
pings and two of loam, which I also beat down ; then four
inches more of the horse-droppings, and two of loam, which,
when thoroughly beat down, completes my bed.

Thus far completed, my next object was, to fill the vacancy
underneath the shelf, with a mixture of hot stable manure,
and leaves well moistened previous to their being put in, and,
in the course of a week, I had a pretty lively heat in my bed ;
I think this was about the 18th of November. I then went to
New York to procure the spawn, but, on making inquiries at
the various seed stores, 1 found, to my regret, there was none
to be had at the time. On my way home, however, I learned
that a gentleman's gardener on the island had a mushroom
bed the previous spring, where, on applying, I found the bed
had been turned out some time previous ; however, I obtained
the liberty to examine the heap, and succeeded in finding suf-

On the CtiUivation of the Mushroom. 157

ficient to give me a start ; this I put into my bed, and as soon
as it began to work, I lost no chance of separating it, and dis-
tributing it as equally as possible over the bed. By using this
precaution, and a judicious attention to my watering-pot, I
soon had the satisfaction of seeing the prospect of a rich har-
vest; and, indeed, I was not disappointed; for the produce, I
must confess, has rather out-weighed my expectations. The
first mushroom I gathered, was on the 22d of December,
since which time, I have gathered, on an average, one peck
per week. The bed is still improving, and I have no doubt
but I shall be able to give a better supply for at least three
months longer from the same bed, when I shall more than
likely give it a month's rest, and then start it ahead again,
when I shall furnish you with the results of my second pro-
gress.

It now remains to detail the mode of treatment since the
bed was spawned, and, as the judicious applications of water
are of the highest importance in the successful cultivation of
the mushroom, I shall give the mode pursued by myself
durhig the past winter, which I suppose will apply best for
the system described above. I gave no water till the spawn
began to run, which I was able to ascertain by thrusting my
hand into the bed in various places, and when what 1 brought
up had the appearance of net-work, and smelled like mush-
rooms, I gave the bed a liberal watering, which 1 repeated
the two following days. I was then sure that I had given
sufficient to moisten all the materials in the bed. This set the
spawn actively to work, and I have only given a light sprink-
ling once a week since, which has kept the bed in a medium
state, neither wet nor dry; but of the two I prefer the latter,
as it is much easier at any time to wet the materials than to
dry them ; and too much water, in any stage of their growth,
is certain destruction. With regard to temperature, 1 have
seldom had it below 50° and never above 60° and between
these two points, I am convinced, from a long course of ex-
perience, that mushrooms can be produced in the very high-
est state of perfection.

In gathering mushrooms, I always cut them; some twist
them off, but I am not much in favor of this plan, as they are
sure to disturb the young ones, which are always clustering

VOL. XIV. NO. IV. 14

158 Comparative Earliness of Eight Varieties of Beans.

and forming about the roots of those ready for gathering. I
have often met with mushrooms formed and matured under
the surface of the bed; but as they push up little hillocks, they
are easily distinguished, and should be uncovered carefully,
that the surrounding spawn may not be disturbed. It may
be prudent to mention, that, when the weather was very cold,
I covered the bed with litter to the depth of 3 or 4 inches.

I may also mention, as an additional encouragement to those
who may be desirous of giving the above a trial, that they
can force sea kale and rhubarb to a high state of perfection in
the same cellar, and, without any additional micans : 1 have
been supplying Mr. Jones's family with these vegetables, from
the same basement, since February.

The Cedars, Staten Island, March 29th, 1848,

Art. IV. Comparative Earli7-iess of Eight Varieties of Beajis,
with, some Rernarks on their Qualities, Cultivation, ^c. By
the Editor.

Nothing is more important than that the relative value of
all the most valuable varieties of vegetables, which are com-
monly cultivated for the table, should be well known; this is
particularly important as regards their comparative earliness :
of the great number of kinds denominated early, probably the
period of maturity varies from one to four weeks; and it will
be thus seen how important to the individual who wishes to
produce successive crops, is that information which accu-
rately gives their relative earliness. A few years since, we
gave an article of this character upon peas, in which, by
a series of experiments, wc ascertained their relative earli-
ness, 6lc. The same trial we have made the last year with
several varieties of the bean, and we are glad to have the
opportunity to present our readers with the details of the ex-
periment, which, we trust, will enable them to select such vari-
eties as will afford a succession crop the whole season.

On the 20th of May, 1848, the following eight kinds were
planted.

Comparative Earliness of Eight Varieties of Beans. 159

The soil in which they were planted was rather heavy and
moist, and, in consequence of this, the sowing was deferred
rather later than usual. But a very small quantity of ma-
nure was used, and the beans were planted side by side, in
eight successive rows, about three feet apart. The result was
as follows : —

China Divarf. — Sown May 20th ; in flower July 15th ; pods
ready to string July 2Gth; ready to shell Aug. 16th; dry and
fully ripe Sept. 4th. Time, from the date of sowing to time of
gathering for stringing, sixty-seven days.

Yelloio Six Weeks. — Sown May 20th; in flower July 15lh;
pods ready to string July 27th ; ready to shell Aug. 12th ; dry
and fully ripe Sept. 13th. Time, from the date of sowing to
time for stringing, sixty-seven days.

Early Mohawk.— Sown May 20th ; in flower July 18th ;
pods ready to string July 29th ; ready to shell Aug. 18th ; dry
and fully ripe Sept. 19th. Time, from the date of sowing to
time of gathering for stringing, seventy days.

Red Cranberry Bush. — Sown May 20th; in flower July
22d ; pods ready to string Aug. 8th ; ready to shell Aug. 24th ;
dry and fully ripe Sept. 25th. Time, from the date of sow-
ing to time of gathering for stringing, eighty days.

Dwarf Horticultural. — Sown May 20th ; in flower July
22d; pods ready to string Aug. 8th; ready to shell Aug.
26th ; dry and fully ripe Sept. 29th. Time, from the date of
sowing to time of gathering for stringing, eighty days.

Early Half Moou.— Sown May 20th ; in flower July 23d ;
pods ready to string Aug. 10th ; ready to shell Aug. 26th ;
dry and fully ripe Sept. 11th. Time, from the date of sow-
ing to time of gathering for stringing, eighty-two days.

Marrow. — Sown May 20th ; in flower July 27th ; pods ready
to string Aug. 13th ; ready to shell Aug. 30th; dry and fully
ripe Sept. 16th. Time, from the date of sowing to time of
gathering for stringing, eighty-five days.

Large White Kidney Dviatf. — Sown May 20th ; in flower
July 29th ; pods ready to string Aug. 25th ; ready to shell
Sept 10th; dry and fully ripe Oct. 10th. Time, from the
date of sowing to date of gathering for stringing, ninety-seven
days.

From this table, it will be seen, that the China Dwarf and

160 Comparative Earliness of Eight Varieties of Beans.

Yellow Six Weeks are of about equal value as regards their
earliness, but that the others, with the exception of the Mo-
hawk, vary from one to fonr weeks in the period of their
growth for stringing, and something more in the ripening of
their crop. The season, last year, was wet and rather cool
just after the beans were out of the ground, and, as the soil
was rather stiff, they did not come forward so rapidly as they
would have done in a more favorable situation. But for that,
we presume the China Dwarf and Yellow Six Weeks would
have produced pods for stringing in about six weeks.

There is considerable difference in the growth and habit of
the different varieties above mentioned. The China dwarf
produces its crop at once, and, in a week or two after, the
pods are sufficiently full to shell, the whole of them are quite
dry, and the vines ready to pull, thus clearing the ground at
once for any other crop. The Yellow Six Weeks, on the contra-
ry, though producing as early as the China Dwarf, ripen their
crop gradually, and even when some of the pods are dry, there
will be others but just beginning to fill up. This, too, is the
case, in a greater or less degree, with the others, especially the
Marrow. The Dwarf Horticultural is a fine variety, having
all the excellence of the running kind, and fully as dwarf as
the Cranberry ; it is also a great bearer, and ripens in suc-
cession. It deserves to find a place in every garden. The
large White Kidney is late, and keeps up the succession to
the end of the season.

The cultivation of beans is so simple that we need say but
little on this point. A light and not too rich a soil suits them
best, and the situation should be one not liable to be over-
saturated with moisture, which often causes mildew. It is
not safe to plant too early, for a chilly night or two, just about
the time the young plants emerge from the ground, will injure
them, even if the temperature does not fall to the freezing
point.

To amateurs who are desirous of an early crop, and do
not mind a litde extra labor, the mode of producing them
which we advised for Lima Beans in a previous volume,
II. p. 401,) may be recommended ; this is, to sow the beans on
inverted sods in an old hotbed, or in one in which there is not
too great a heat ; when the plants have put out their first rough

On the Peculiarities of Foliage in the Camellia. 161

leaves, they may be planted out, if all danger of cold nights
is past, though this is not very safe until the last part of May
or first of June. The sods may then be removed carefully
from the bed, and broken in pieces with one, two, or more
plants upon each, and, the soil being prepared, they may be
set out in rows, placing them sufficiently deep to earth up the
stems, which will throw out fresh roots. In this way, they
may be forwarded at least ten days.

Art. V. On the Peculiarities of Foliage in the Camellia ;
with some Remarks on the Deficiency of Coloring Matter
in the Petals of many of the New Varieties. By Dr. J. S.
CuNNELL, Washington, D. C.

Dear Sir, — I have noticed, for eight or ten years past,
that the young foliage (say when first expanding) of all the
striped or punctata camellias, or such as have a white (or
blush) ground, with red or pink stripes or spots, has present-
ed, almost invariably, a striped or spotted appearance; that
is, a light-green foliage, with darker green, or rather reddish
spots and stripes interspersed on the foliage. This appear-
ance I have frequently shown to gardeners and other persons
who have been in my greenhouse during the spring, or early
part of summer, when the camellias were making their young
wood. But, last spring, I had about a dozen seedlings from
one to four years old, that made a different appearance, in the
foliage, from the above; in this case, the young foliage pre-
sented a reddish-green ground, (or dull green,) wiih deeper
reddish-green (or maroon) stripes and spots interspersed.
This peculiarity I pointed out to a number of persons, includ-
ing amateurs and gardeners, and, at the same time, I remarked
that I had no doubt but that we should have a new order or
variety of this beautiful family. This season, one only of the
foregoing seedling camellias has bloomed, and the flower has a
ground color of a dark red, with deep crimson stripes and spots
on the petals, and spots or dashes of white intermixed. The
flower, of itself, possesses no great merit, being of irregular
14*

162 On the PeciiUarities of Foliage in the Camellia.

form, somewhat like Camelh'a eximia, with a few stamens
and an imperfect style, which will make it very desirable
for the production of more perfect flowers of a new order of
seedlings. The growth of the plant is vigorous, and the foli-
age handsome.

A few years ago, I had several seedling camellias, which
blossomed with imperfect petals, that is, the petals were de-
fective as to substance and coloring matter. Where the flower
was of a red color, there were white stripes and white edges ;
the white, or whitish parts, being defective in substance, had
a membranous appearance, instead of the fulness of petal of
the best varieties; the coloring matter was also defective.

I have observed that all of the Chinese varieties of the
camellia, so far as I have cultivated them, which have been
introduced into our collections, have the substance of the col-
oring matter of the petals very perfect; but many of the Eng-
lish or European seedlings, and also several of our American
varieties, have the substance of the petals and coloring mat-
ter both imperfect; so much so, in some kinds, that the edges
and centre of many of the petals have a whitish and mem-
branous appearance; for instance, C. var. mutabilis. Fielder's
Queen Victoria, and sometimes Victoria, and others of the
same character, (though I need not notice the American vari-
eties which partake of the habit, for reasons unnecessary to
mention.) I have, for some time, endeavored to ascertain the
cause of this defect, but have yet been unable to do so. With
the hope, however, that some of your correspondents might
be able to communicate some information in relation to this
subject, I have ofl^ered these few suggestions.

Washington^ Maich^ 1848.

Our correspondent. Dr. Gunnell, is a zealous amateur in the
■culture of the camellia, and he was the first to point out the
peculiarity of growth in the camellia by which white or
blush-colored varieties might be distinguished from red or
crimson ones long before they flowered, as we long since noted,
(Vol. VIII. p. 123.) His hints in regard to the peculiarity of
growth in spotted or striped seedlings are, therefore, worthy
of attention, and may lead to important and useful results.
—Ed.

On the Citltivation of Torcnia Asiatica. 163

Art. VI- On the Cultivation of Torejiia. Asiatica. By E. W.

This is a beautiful sub-shrubby plant introduced into England
some years since, from the East Indies, and more recently into
this country by other parties, it is presumed, besides the writer ;
but we do not remember to have seen any notice of it* in any
of our horticultural periodicals, and we therefore propose to give
a brief description of it, in the hope that others may be induced
to introduce it and give it a more extensive trial ; for, out of sev-
eral plants imported in 1846, only one plant survived to bloom
during the last summer and autumn, and this plant has recently
been unfortunately destroyed by an accident, so that only two
doubtful cuttings remain.

The plant is of a diffuse, branching habit, with quadrangu-
lar, flexible stems, bearing opposite ovate and serrated leaves,
from the axils of which other branches are produced, and to-
wards the tips of these shoots numerous flowers appear, usually
on separate stalks, but sometimes several from the same axil.
The shape of the flower is somewhat like that of a mimulus,
the color principally a beautiful soft dark blue, or blue lilac of
a peculiar and indescribable tint. It is divided into four lobes,
upon each of which is a deep purple blotch, and the throat is
of the same color, beautifully varied by a pale streak down the
centre of the lower segment. Though originally supposed
to be an annual plant, it is easily preserved through the winter
in the greenhouse, and the same plants bloom as freely as the
new cuttings the ensuing summer. It is easily propagated,
flowers freely through the summer and autumnal months, so
that it is a plant well calculated for bedding out.

From its East India origin, it was supposed to be very ten-
der, and suitable only for stove cultivation, but, having been
subsequently found in Alpine regions, and extended over a
wide range of country, it was foimd to be possessed of much

* A full description of this beautiful plant will be found in our Floricultural No-
tices in our last volume, (XIII. p. 317,) but we were not awaie of its introduction into
our gardens, until the communication of our obliging correspondent came to hand.
We hope he may so succeed in the management of his plants as to greatly extend its
cultivation. — Ed.

164 Epijjhyllmn RiisseUydnum.

hardihood of constitution, but it grows best in a rich Hght soil,
and in rather a warm situation. We have thus given a brief
description of a plant which we think well calculated for bed-
ding out, or growing in masses, and of a color which we do
not possess, and is a very desirable one for growing in beds, a
mode which is becoming quite popular, and which produces
a iSne effect even with an ordinary flower. How beautiful,
therefore, must the Torenia asiatica be, grown in this way !
Boston, March 20th, 1848.

Art. VI [. Epiphyllum RusselUknum. By P.

The thanks of those, who have heretofore failed in cultivat-
ing this beautiful species of Cactus, are due to your correspon-
dent, for his suggestions upon the subject. His name is such
good authority, that 1 hardly lil;e to give you the details of
my culture, — this year very successful by some lucky accident,
it may be.

1 have observed that this cactus will absorb much more
water in twenty-four hours, than ^nj other variety that I have
cultivated : and the quantity necessary to its healthy growth
in the warm, dry atmosphere of a parlor, will oftentimes in-
jure the texture of the plant at the root. This is easily avoided
by engrafting upon the triangularis; and, at the same time,
much more vigorous growth will be obtained than upon its
own stem. My practice is, to graft all the tender varieties in
this way.

In December, a fine plant produced one flower, sufficiently
beautiful to answer the description in your magazine : the re-
mainder of the buds soon after dropped. In January, a new
crop appeared : and, about the first of February, I began to
water with guano once a fortnight, and allowed the pan be-
neath the pot to contain water during most of the day. The
result has been, that the plant has been beautifully decked
with graceful and delicate blooms of the Russelha/mm,
and there are a number of well-developed beds which are evi-
dently going on in the same way.

Anemone Japonica. 165

In the soil, I placed no charcoal or lime rubbish ; but in
preparing the manure, or while it was decomposing, kept it
carefully covered with sulphate of lime, thus converting the
volatile ammonia into a fixed salt, and the sulphate of lime
into a carbonate. To this cause, I ascribe a very unusual
fertility in all my house-plants during the past winter : they
have done better than when watered once a week with guano.
By the way, would it not be better for horticulture and agri-
culture, if a part at least of the ^'Plaster" which is now so
freely used, and sometimes so injudiciously, were thrown on
the compost heap, instead of being '■'■ jjlcmted" in potato-hills?

While I am writing, I wish to recal to your mind, the va-
riety of potatoes, which 1 have been raising for several years.
I find the sealsfoot improve upon acquaintance. The crop is
invariably large, fine-grained, and less likely to rot than any
kind I am acquainted with. I have used no others since last
October, although having Chenangoes and Batemans in my
cellar.

Ki7igsion, Mass., March, 1848.

We can add our testimony in favor of the excellence of the
sealsfoot potato : we have ourselves been eating of this variety
all winter, in preference to any other, not excepting the East-
ports, which have hitherto been esteemed the best to be found
in our market. We can also add, that it is exceedingly exempt
from rot, for our crop, last year, suffered much less than the
Chenango and several others. — Ed.

Art. VIII. Anemone Japonica ; its Cidlivation, Propagation,
(^c. ; with an Engraving of the Flower. By the Editor.

Among the many fine acquisitions to our collections of plants
made by Mr. Fortime in his expedition to China, the Anemone
japonica {^fig. 18,) holds a conspicuous place. Having some-
what the general appearance of the common garden anemone,
it possesses a neat and ample foliage, and its flowers appear
in terminal clusters on the tall stems which rise up above the

166

Anemone Japonica ;

leaves. In addition to these, it has the vaUiable habit of
blooming late in the autumn, when we have but few flowers
to enliven the border, or render gay the conservatory or par-
lor. Dr. Lindley, in brief notice of it, thus describes it : —

"The Japan anemone produces its large purple semi-double
blossoms in the months of October and November, at that
moment when the gay flowers of summer begin to shrink from

Fig. 18. Anemone Japonica.

the cold and damp nights which the autumn brings in its
train to England. A native of damp woods on the mountains
of Japan, this hardy Asiatic disregards the chilly air of Great
Britain, and all such rigor as it may meet there in winter.
We have no frost that will harm it, no spring easterly winds
capable of pinching it, no summer heat with power to scorch
it ; on the contrary, our climate is like its own, and it is as

its Cultivation, Propagation, t^c. 167

certain to throw up its tufts of broad green leaves and autum-
nal flowers in England as on Mount Kifune. The plant is
inferior to few of the verbenas, and to none of the petunias,
as a border flower ; it is superior in foliage ; there is a long
succession of its purple blossoms ; and, as it produces seed
without difliculty, it may be expected to sport into as many
varieties, and to become as much improved by art, as the gay
spring anemonies of Mesopotamia. To all this is to be
added a surprising readiness to multiply, independent of seed."
We have already noticed a fine specimen, (XIII. p. 496,)
which flowered in our collection the past autumn. Though
only a small plant of recent importation, it threw up several
of its tall stems, terminated with its pale rosy semi-double
flowers, which at once bespoke its beauty. Though our ex-
perience has only been with its cultivation as a greenhouse or
conservatory plant, there is little doubt it will prove quite
hardy in our climate.

To increase so desirable a plant was a principal object,
but, as it made no branches, only throwing up its long leaf
stems, division of the root appeared at first the only mode of
accomplishing it ; but we did not wish to do this until the
plant had flowered. Upon close inspection of the root, how-
ever, we found that quite a number of young leaves were clus-
tered around the base, and, at the next shift, the earth was
slightly removed, disclosing a great number of eyes or buds
breaking from the principal roots : these were carefully taken
off", and, in a few weeks, they made stocky little plants.

With a view to render the growth of this plant familiar to
all, that it might more speedily be generally introduced into
our gardens, we began to prepare an article upon the subject ;
but, just as we commenced, the Journal of the Lond. Hort.
Soc. was received, in which a full account of its treatment and
propagation is given by Mr. Gordon, the superintendant of the
hardy department of the garden. As it is as complete as any
thing we could ofler, we copy the entire article : —

" At page 61, Vol. I. of this Journal, will be found, amongst
notices of new plants, some account of the Japan anemone.
From want of a better acquaintance with the plant, it was,
at that time, supposed to be best treated as a greenhouse plant.
It has now, however, been ascertained to be perfectly hardy

K^S Anemone Japonica ;

under all circumstances, and it has proved itself to be one of
the most desirable of herbaceous plants for autumn decora-
tion, blooming, as it does profusely, from the middle of Au-
gust to the end of October. It forms quite a rival for the pur-
ple Chinese chrysanthemum, its rosy purple semi-double flow-
ers being each nearly three inches in diameter, and elevated
to a height of two or more feet. It grows freely in almost
any situation, and is easily increased by seed, or by dividing
the old plants when in a dormant state, or it may be raised
from small portions of roots, if treated thus : —

Any time in spring, before the old plants commence grow-
ing, shake or wash the soil clean from them, and afterwards
cut their slender wire-like roots into small pieces, from half
an inch to an inch in length ; and, having provided some pans
or pots well drained, and filled with soil composed of sandy
loam, peat, and well-decayed cow-dung, in equal parts, strew
the small portions of the roots over the surface, and cover
them lightly with silver sand ; then place the pots or pans in
a frame or pit, where there is a gentle heat and plenty of
moisture ; they will soon commence growing, and, by the be-
ginning of May, will be ready for potting, singly, in 3-inch
pots, which should be filled with the same kind of soil as be-
fore used, returning the plants to the pit or frame in order to
recover the effects of the shift. Afterwards, when fairly estab-
lished in the 3-inch pots, they should be removed to rather a
shady situation out of doors, where they will grow rapidly,
and, by the end of June, will again require shifting into larger
pots ; or they may be planted out in the open beds, or borders,
for blooming in autumn, observing, however, that, whether
kept in pots or planted out, the strongest plants be selected,
and, to be successful, it is essential that they have rich soil
and plenty of moisture.

If the plants are intended for greenhouse or conservatory
decoration during autumn, they should be treated as follows : —
About the end of June, select some of the strongest plants in
the 3-inch pots, and, having well drained some large pots,
(r2-inch,) place about six of the plants out of the 3-inch pots,
at equal distances in each large pot, employing rich soil of
the description already mentioned; water freely, and place the
plants in rather a shaded situation, afterwards treat them like

its Cultivation, Pi'opagatio}}, ^'c. 169

Chinese chrysanthemums, and finally, about the middle of
August, remove them to the greenhouse or conservatory,
where they will keep on blooming until succeeded by the
chrysanthemums ; in fact, the Japan anemone requires, if
grown in pots, to be divided annually like the chrysanthe-
mum.

If intended for open borders, the plants should be obtained
from di\'isions of the old plants, taken off about the end of
March, and not from small portions of the roots; for, if raised
from the latter, the plants are never so strong, and seldom
bloom well the first season. They should be planted out in
May in a rich loamy soil, and afterwards freely supplied with
water in very dry weather. When fairly established in the
open border, they will require no more care, except removing
and dividing them once every two or three years, otherwise
they become tufts of leaves and weak shoots, and never bloom
so finely or so abundantly as when removed and replanted at
intervals.

Seeds are only produced by plants grown in the greenhouse,
and therefore the plan of raising plants in this way is not worth
time and trouble, except that there are chances of obtaining
new varieties. I have but little doubt such may be obtained
by hybridizing the Japan anemone with such kinds as the
large white Anemone vitifolia, from the north of India, or the
common garden Anemone coronaria, which may be had in
bloom all the year by varying the season of planting, or even
the beautiful yellow Anemone palmata might be made the
male parent of a fine race of hybrids.

In such case, all the plants must be cultivated in pots, and
regulated according to their time of blooming, so as to be
brought into bloom at the same time as the Japan anemone,
which is about the middle of August; it ripens its seeds about
the beginning of November.

In collecting the seeds when ripe, care must be taken to
gather them perfectly dry, and afterwards to place them where
they will be out of the reach of damp until the following
March, w^hen they may be sown in pots or pans, lightly cov-
ered, and placed in a gentle, rather moist heat. The seeds
will soon vegetate, and the young plants will be ready for
potting off singly by the end of May. Afterwards, when

VOL. XIV. — NO. IV. 15

170 Floriciiltiiral and Botanical Notices.

established, they should be transferred to the open air, where
they may remain in 3-inch pots until October, when they
should be wintered in a cold pit or frame, for they will not
flower the first season from seed with any certainty. They
may afterwards be treated like the old plants, but should
never be allowed to become very dry, even in winter, for Dr.
Siebold states, in his Flora Japonica, ' that they inhabit
damp woods on the edges of rivulets on the mountains of
Japan.' They suffer from drought more than from any thing
else."

We would only remark that, in giving the plants a trial in
the open border, good strong specimens should be selected,
and a slight protection given of dry leaves, or strawy manure.

Art. IX. Floricultnral and Botanical Notices of New and
Beantifitl Plants figured in Foreig?i Periodicals ; with
Descriptions of those recently introduced to^ or originated in,
American Gardetis.

New Vo-bejias. — No tribe of plants possesses more valuable
attractions, or has more admirers, than the Verbena ; the faci-
lity with which it is raised from seed, as well as increased
by cuttings, added to its gayness as a border plant, has ren-
dered it one of the most popular flowers. New varieties are
constantly produced, but it is no easy task to raise such as
shall possess sufiicient beauty to deserve a name. We are
glad, therefore, to announce the production of a few seedlings,
which are not only remarkably beautiful, but of a very dis-
tinct character; in another number we shall more fully de-
scribe them. Exquisite {Barnes's), a fine, bold flower, of
a rich dark red, inclining to scarlet, with a large and very
distinct pale yellow centre — extra. Eximia, a brilliant scarlet,
with a small yellow eye. Odorata, delicate pink, with dis-
tinct rose centre, fragrant and beautiful. Susanna (Weld's),
rich deep rose, with a scarlet centre, very distinct and fine.
McCidlough' s Seedling, fulgent scarlet, very deep and rich.
Brmiette, very dark scarlet, with maroon eye, superb. Eva,

Floricultural and Botanical Notices. 171

pale blush, with rosy centre, very large truss. Grandissima,
(Hovey's), rich deep crimson, the finest of this color : with
several other distinct varieties.

Campanula ?i6bilis, which we have already noticed, (XIII,
p. 498,) is now in full bloom in our collection, and is truly
one of the finest of this showy family. The stems are about
four feet high, much branched, and bearing upon each stem
several of its nodding flowers, of larger size than the common
bluebell, and almost as delicately dotted on the inside, as a
foxglove. The plants have been wintered in the greenhouse,
and commenced throwing up their flower-stems the latter
part of January. It will be a great acquisition.

Li'lium exi'mium Courtin Remarkable Lily. (LiVidcece.)

Japan.

A fine, half-hardy bulb ; growing two and a half feet hish ; with white flowers ; appearing iu
summer ; increased by offsets. Flore des Serres, 18i7, pi. 283.

Considerable confusion exists in the nomenclature of the
different Japan lilies; and the present plant is known under
three or four names, viz: — japonicum, longiflorum, longiflorum
var. Several eminent botanists, according to Van Houtte's
Flora- do not appear to have been at all acquainted with it,
and it is not enumerated in Loudon's Hortus Britannicus.
For its introduction, we are indebted to Dr. Siebold, who ob-
tained it in his Japan expedition.

In the description, the points of difference between this
and longiflorum are plainly pointed out. Its general appear-
ance is like longiflorum, viz.: — with exquisite white flowers,
slightly drooping, and very fragrant. It is doubtful whether
it will prove perfectly hardy; its beauty, however, will al-
ways render it a favorite in fine collections of plants.
{Flore des Serres, Nov.)

^scHYNANTHUs LONGiFLO Rus Blumc Loug-flowcrcd iEschy-
nanthus. (GcsnerdcerE.) Java.

A stove plant ; of procumbent habit ; with crimson flowers ; appearing iu summer ; increased by
cuttings ; cultivated ill leaf mould, peat and sand. Flore des Serres. 1847. pi. 2S8.

Several new species have been noticed in our last volume,
(XI 11), but few of them have yet been introduced. For a
stove they are remarkably showy, with their fine heads of deep
crimson flowers, but they will not thrive well in the ordinary

172 Floriciillural and Botanical Notices.

temperature of the greenhouse. This fine species, Avhich dif-
fers but Httle from the others, except in its very large flowers,
was found by Mr. T. Lobb, and merits speedy introduction
into our gardens. {Flore des Setres, Nov.)

Aquile^gia leptoce'ras Fischer and Meyer Slender Spurred
Aquilegia (i^anunculacese.) Siberia.

A hardy perennial ; growins six inches hi°li ; with pale blue flowers ; appearing in summer ; in-
creased by seed and division of the root; cultivated in any good soil. Flore des Serres. 1S47. pi. 296.

A fine addition to our hardy plants, having "a delicately
cut foliage, large and showy flowers, and of such small stat-
ure as to merit the attention of amateurs, who wish one of
the most agreeable ornaments for their parterre."

The A. leptoc eras is a native of Siberia. It is of dwarf
habit, with large, pale blue flowers, and forms a tuft of deli-
cate green leaves, rising to the height of six or eight inches.
Its foliage approaches to the A. canadensis, while, in the
volume and form of the flowers, it resembles vulgaris : each
stem bears two pendent blossoms. Any good soil will suit it,
and it may be readily increased by division of the root or by
seeds. {Flore des Serres, Dec.)

Edgwo'rthia chrysa'ntha Lindl. Yellow Flowered Edgworth-
ia. (JThijmeldcecE.) China.

a half hardy (or hardy; shrub ; growing three or four feet high ; with yellow flowers ; appearing
in spring ; increased by layers or grafting ; grown in any good soil. Flore des Serres. 1847. pi. 289.

A pretty little shrub, which will probably prove hardy in
our climate, at least, south of Philadelphia. Mr. Fortune
found it in the gardens at Chusan, and sent plants to the
Horticultural Society in 1845, in whose garden it flowered,
for the first time, in 1847. The leaves are oblong, lanceolate,
of a dark green, and covered with a dense pubescense. The
flowers, which are yellow, appear in semi-globular heads,
similar to the daphne, and are, like that, exceedingly fragrant.
Until it is proved to be hardy, it may be kept in a cold frame
in winter, and should be grown in a compost of heath soil,
loam and sand, and receive the same treatment as the daphne.
It may be readily increased by grafting on the common me-
zereon. {Flore des Sc?Tes, Nov.)

Transactions of the Ohio Nurserymen, ^x. 173

REVIEWS.

Art. I. Transactions of the Ohio Nvrsenjmen and Fruit
Groicers Convention ; held at Columbus, Sept. 29 and 30,
1S47. Pamphlet, pp. 46. Columbus, Ohio, 1847.

In our last number we noticed this pamphlet, and gave a
brief description of several of the new apples, or such as ap-
peared to be new, which are mentioned as having been exhibited
before the convention. The nurserymen's convention was
proposed by several cultivators in the West, for the purpose
of bringing to notice some of the many seedling fruits which
have been raised in that region, and a few of which may
prove highly valuable, and also, " for the collecting together of
specimen fruits from different parts of the State, in connection
with the growers themselves, whereby some of the many er-
rors that now abound, relating to names of fruit, might be cor-
rected, and the various qualities of fruit, when grown at dif-
ferent points in the state, discussed." This object has, in
some degree, been effected ; and we do not doubt but an annu-
al gathering of the most zealous cultivators of the West
would do much to extricate our fruits, especially the apple,
from the confusion which now so universally prevails in re-
gard to the old fruits'of the East, and the seedlings of the West.

A great deal of discussion took place in regard to the effect
of soil, locality, &c., upon various fruits, and numerous speci-
mens were presented for comparison, from different sections
of Ohio, to prove this. Quite a correspondence was produced
from several gentlemen, in relation to the origin of the Putnam
Russet ; and the letter of Dr. Barker, without any further evi-
dence, is sufficient to show that it is identical with the Roxbury
Russet. The substance of the letter is as follows ; Mr. Put-
man received a lot of scions from Connecticut, as early as
1796, a list of which has been given by us, (Vol. XIII. p. 106.)
In 1806, Mr Putnam sent a great many barrels of his russets
to market, and from this circumstance the bearing of the fol-
lowing extract will be understood : —

As early as 1806, Mr. P. had considerable quantities of apples for sale ;
(a portion were Russets, to my certain knowledge.) Now would it ha\e
15*

174 Agricultural Addresses.

been possible for Mr. P., after his settlement in this county, to have raised
from the seed a tree, brought to bearing, say at G or 8 years old, then from
the cuttings of it procured others large enough to transplant as early as 1797
or 8 ? Then, recollect that an orchard produces but little fruit until set 6 or
8 years. But enough ; you know my opinion has ahoays been, without any
indecision or wavering, that the " Putnam Russet," (so called in this re-
gion,) " Marietta Russet," or " Belpre Russet," was introduced from Con-
necticut, or some portion of New England, about 1776 or 1777, by Israel
Putnam. It is now my opinion that it is the same as the " Roxbury Rus-
set."

At the conclusion of the meeting, a committee, appointed for
that purpose, reported the next convention be held at Colum-
bus, Ohio, on the 27th of September, 1848. All members are
requested to bring specimens of the most approved varieties
of fruit grown in their counties or districts.

Art. II. 1. Address of Geti. Jmnes Tallmadge, delivered
at Castle Garden, in the city of New York, at the close of the
TweiUieth Annual Fair of the American Institute, October
23d, 1847. Pamphlet. Svo. pp. 16. New York. 1847.

2. Address, delivered at the Annual Meeting of the New York
State Agricultural Society, at Albany, January 19, 1848.
By John P. Norton, Prof, of Ag. Chemistry, Yale College,
New Haven, Conn. Pamphlet. 8vo. pp. 24. Albany,
1848.

These two addresses have been before us for some time,
but no opportunity has offered for a brief review of them.

The address of Gen. Tallmadge, delivered before the
American Institute, is replete with facts and arguments,
showing the importance of encouragement to all the indus-
trial arts. So varied are the subjects noticed, that we can
scarcely find a paragraph, which, taken from the others, will
show the spirit of the address. Free trade notions are briefly
alluded to, and receive their due meed of censure. " Free
trade," says the author, "never has, it never can exist, under
any state of society ; it is an ignis fatmis to delude and ruin."

In conclusion, the author alludes to the condition and pros-

Agricultural Addresses. 17 o

pects of the Institute, and to the prejudices which exist in
certain quarters relative to the success of its annual fairs.
We close with this extract, merely expressing our surprise
that any individual should deny the great benefits derived
from the Institute and its exhibitions. It is an easy task to
say what should be done: but, until those who object to what
is already doing, propose something better, we are content to
acknowledge the good example of the Institute : — ■

There is one more subject which, perhaps, in justice to the American
Institute, should be noticed. It is this : an inquiry has been started by pri-
vate individuals, and echoed by portions of tlie press, on seeing the un-
bounded success of our fairs, — " What is done with all the money received
for entranced' — and this is couched in the form of an insinuation, A short
statement of the matter is due to the Institute. Whenever it has been my
lot to preside over any institution, — as I have over this from nearly its com-
mencement, until within a short period, — it has been the invariable rule of
my life to examine, pencil in hand, the monetary and financial condition of
that institution, and to look into the statements of its condition from time to
time. This course I pursued while president of the American Institute, and
I must say that, at no period since its commencement, has there been any
defalcation or fraud in its management, and at no time an absent dollar. So
far have these fairs augmented our funds fur the good of the farmer, that, I
candidly say to you, the Institute has now at interest about $7,000, every
cent cf which awaits but the order of the Institute ; and this they are not at
all backward at giving, when any good is to be accomplished by it. The
object is to sustain with it the current and necessary expenses of the instita-
tion, and, whenever the wisdom of the state shall come in aid, perhaps to
establish an agricultural school.

The address of Mr. Norton, before the N. Y. State Society, is
upon agricultural chemistry, and is mainly devoted to an eluci-
dation of the general connections of science with agriculture.

With but few preliminary observations, the author first
explains the terms organic and inorganic, as applied to soils,
and gives a statement of the different substances, — eleven in
number, — which compose these soils. Next, he treats upon
plants which are organic and inorganic, and shows, by an
analysis of the ash, or inorganic part, of several root and
grain crops, what substances are usually present in a very
fertile soil. They are potash, soda, lime, magnesia, oxide of
iron, phosphoric acid, sulphuric acid, chlorine, and silica.
"All of the inorganic part of the plant," says the author,

176 Agricultural Addresses.

"comes from the soil ; the air cannot partially compensate for
the poverty of the earth, as it does in the organic part.
Hence, it is necessary that the soil be well supplied "

Following upon this theory, the address is so connected, that
we could convey but little of its great interest without a long
quotation. The striking efficacy of lime on some soils, its in-
jurious effects on others, and the want of fertility of lands
well supplied with farm-yard manure, are fully explained,
and are of the greatest interest to every farmer.

Mr. Norton fully estimates the value of experience to all
cultivators, while, at the same time, he shows how slow must
be all progress, when guided by practice alone : —

I would not for an instant be thought to undervalue practical experi-
ence; its results have been great and important, and, in many cases, science
has only followed to explain what experience has before discovered. But
the process of discovery by experiment alone, is always painfully slow, be-
cause the experimenter has no clear perceptions to guide him. In many
cases, errors and inexplicable differences of opinion arise, because results of
an opposite character are obtained by individuals in the same neighborhood.

I once attended a meeting of a farmer's club, in Ayrshire, Scotland,
where the subject of discussion was lime. All were from the same neigh-
borhood, and all had used lime, but scarcely any two agreed in their estima-
tion of its effocts. Some considered it one of the most valuable manures
employed, and others condemned it entirely. The discussion was perfectly
unsatisfactory in its termination, each person being only confirmed in his
own opinion. The true explanation of their differences consisted in the fact,
that the soils of their district were derived from the decomposition of two
species of rock, the one of which abounded in lime, while the other was
almost entirely destitute. This was a case in which experience gave no in-
formation as to the course most advisable in individual cases. Expensive
experiments were necessary in each instance, and, after all this expenditure
of time and money, no general or useful result was arrived at. But, on the
other hand, theory alone is almost as objectionable as practice alone. Re-
sults obtained in the laboratory, or on paper, are by no means to be consid-
ered as applicable to practice, until tested by experience. Ignorance of this
fact has led some of the most eminent philosophers into deplorable errors,
and has caused many practical men to regard scientific agriculture as but
another name for quackery. The only true course is to unite practice and
theory, guiding and explaining each by the other. The utmost possible
advance would then be made in both directions, because all experiments
would be for definite ends, and guided by clear, intelligent views.

There are too many of our gardeners and amateurs, whose

General Notices. 177

experience, though often leading to successful results, would
attain their objects in a speedier manner, if guided by that
aid which science will ever afford.

The distribution of Mr. Norton's address must awaken a
deep in.erest in the important subject of agricultural chemistry.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General Notices.

Japan Liliums. — If half the attention was paid to the cultivation of Lil-
iums that is paid to the tulip, we might expect the most splendid results
from crossing. Independently of crosses, the great diversity in their forms,
and their various seasons of flowering, must render them of greater value
than even a tulip bed. A person may enjoy a bed of hlies for several
months, which cannot be the case with tulips. The plan which T should
propose for those who wish to grow Liliums to perfection is this : — A bed
should be formed proportioned to the number that the grower has got to
plant. The common soil should be taken out to the depth of three feet ; and
it should be filled up with the following compost : — Two barrow loads of
turfy loam from a pasture field, with an equal portion of turfy peat ; to
these, add one barrow load of leaf soil, and also an equal portion of sharp
sand, with one barrow load of well rotted manure, and so on in proportion,
till such time as you have got as much together as will fill the bed. Let
all this be thrown up into a heap for a year before it is wanted, and fre-
quently turned in the course of that time. If the bottom is wet, it would
be well to fill up the bed one foot with broken stone, and to lay upon that
turf, with the grassy side upwards, as it will not rot so soon as if it was
turned downwards. Over this should be laid six inches of well rotted ma-
nure. With a dry bottom, it will require no stone, but only laying the
manure at the bottom of the bed. The bed should then be filled up, to
about two feet and a half, with the compost before mentioned. After it is
filled in, it should remain for about a fortnight before it is planted ; so that
the soil may get well settled down. The roots should be planted as early
in January as the weather will admit. The planting of them should com-
mence with the tallest towards the top of the bed, and so on till you reach
the bottom of the bed with the lowest species. The crowns should be six
inches below the surface when planted. When finished planting, the bed
should be hooped over and covered with mats every night, and every day
that is frosty ; but every fine day the mats should be taken off, and even
when raining, as the rain will do them no harm, but good. The mats
should be put on as long as there is any appearance of frost. I should have
said that, when planting, it would be necessary to put a little sand around

17 S General Notices.

and also over the tops of the bulbs, the same as is done with tulips. It will
also be necessary to have a covering for the bed, so that the plants when in
flower may be protected from heavy rains and cold cutting winds ; and also,
to protect the late-flowering ones, it will be proper to proportion the distance
to the size that the plants grow to when planting ; for some of the species
will require a foot in the row, and a foot between the rows, and some of
them more. As soon as the plants are all done flowering, it will be neces-
sary to take them up, and throw out the soil that is in the bed, that it may
get the benefit of the air and rain, so as to sweeten it, and prepare it
again for the following season ; and, when filling it in, it should have some
more manure put at the bottom of the bed, and also some fresh compost
should be added. When the bulbs are taken up, they should be put into a
cool and dry place, and covered over with dry sphagnum, or bog moss, as
that will keep them fresh and healthy. The planting should again take
place in January, as before ; and so on with them every year. It will be
necessary to take away all the small bulbs from the flowering ones before
planting ; and, by following this plan, I am confident that a most beautiful
show of flowers will begot. I should have mentioned, that abed should
be formed for the young bulbs, to get them on to a flowering state, so that
they may be ready to be put in, if any of the flowering bulbs should die ;
and also to forward any of those that are rare. They should not be taken
up till they are in a flowering state : they should then be treated the same
as those in the flowering bed are. — [Gard. Journ. 1848, p. 23.)

Roses for Winter Decoration. — The tribe of roses aflbrds a variety of plants
which may be had in bloom all the year round, if a sufiicient stock of them
is obtained. I would recommend that all roses intended for forcing
should be grown upon their own roots, especially the Bourbons, Chinese,
and Tea-scented varieties; for this reason, that they throw up strong shoots,
and bring upon these shoots large clusters of flowers. These tribes furnish
the best kinds to force in the early part of the season. The autumnal roses
in the open garden are over towards the end of November ; the earliest for-
cing ones may be had to succeed them, and a succession may be kept up until
the roses in the open garden again succeed the forced ones.

The system I have adopted to obtain this succession of flowers is as fol-
lows : — I obtain a quantity of strong healthy young plants, of the tribes
Bourbon, Chinese, and Tea-scented. I pot them early in the spring, giving
them tolerably good-size pots; and as the season advances, they begin to put
forth their bloom buds, which I keep constantly picked off until towards the
autumn. This induces them to throw up strong shoots, and likewise strength-
ens the plants. When the frosts begin to set in, I remove them into a cold
pit, and take them out for forcing as 1 require them ; always choosing first
those that are likely to come into bloom the soonest. By this means I keep
up a succession of these tribes of roses until I get the Moss, Provence, Per-
petual, and Hybrid Perpetual varieties into bloom ; these latter tribes are
much more difficult to force early in the winter than those before mentioned.
1 treat these similarly to the Chinese during the summer ; they are, of
course, cut back in the autumn, and kept dry until introduced into the for-

General Notices. 179

cing house, when a partial watering is given them, increasing tlie quantity
according to the demands of the plant. The more the plants are forced,
the greater degree of hardening off they require, such as placing them in a
greenhouse, «Sic., for a day or two before introducing them into the drawing-
room ; otherwise, they are liable to droop the first day or so. 1 should re-
mark that I always keep the pots upon racks when out of doors or in the
pits ; this prevents the worms from getting into the pots. The soil that I
pot them. in is rich sand}"^ loam, with plenty of drainage at the bottom of the
pots. — {Garcl. Journ., 1848, p. 21.)

Bleeding of Vines. — Th? vine is very apt to bleed greatly in tl e spring,
if the winter pruning be deferred to but a very short time after the com-
mencement of the year, if no severity of frost follows to deaden the pores
where cut through. It remains at present a somewhat disputed question
whether such bleeding be injurious to the vine, but the writer thinks it
ought to be avoided if possible ; and he does not hold it to be absolutely
necessary to accomplish the necessary pruning before the spring shoots
appear; for he has, in many cases, chosen, in order to avoid causing the
bleeding, to leave a vine quite unpruned till the buds began to push them-
selves into shoots ; and, as the vine has shown its disposition to extend
itself by each upper shoot, he has pinched off that shoot below its first
joint, taking care not to wound, in the slightest degree, the wood of the
past year, which would occasion bleeding. This he has done till he has
brought the vine exactly into that state, as to bearing buds, which he would
have done if he had accomplished the pruning at or before Christmas ; and
has got, by this dilatory process, ofttimes, a very good crop. The only dis-
advantage seems to be that many rather unsightly ends of the last year's
shoots, bared of their buds, must be left till about the third week of June,
when they may, as well as even far older wood, be cut away without occa-
sioning any or but the slightest bleeding. The bleeding in April and May,
in a vigorous vine, is such, that it seems to defy the utmost art of surgery
to stanch it. Some say that it may be stanched by burning the end of a
shoot, and then applying thereon hot sealing-wax ; but even this, the writer
has tried without success ; and certainly, the burning alone is not sufiicient,
as, where the burning ends, there the bleeding takes place. The bleeding
seems to be conducted according to the order following. In about the end
of March, the vine will bleed throughout a few of the middle hours of the
day, when the sun shines powerfully, and the wind is in a warm quarter;
but, during the night, the bleeding ceases. About the middle of April to
the middle of May, the bleeding takes place considerably and incessantly,
both by day and night. In the end of May and beginning of June, the
bleeding stops by day and takes place in the night. Towards the end of
June, when the shoots and bunches are contending against each other most
strenuously by day and night for each drop of sap, there seems to be no
longer room for any waste of sap by bleeding. Such is what the writer
believestobetheorder of the vine's bleeding. — (Gard. Journ., 1847, p. 311.)
Greenhouse Azaleas for Winter Decoration. — The production of flowers
for the drawing-room during the dark, dull, cheerless, and dreary months

180 General Notices.

of autumn and winter, forms, nowadays, no inconsiderable share of the
labors of the gardener. Among the plants which are adapted for this pur-
pose, the beautiful genus Azalea stands preeminent. The splendor and
beauty of the flowers, the variety and richness of the colors, the vast profu-
sion of the blossoms, the length of time the bloom remains in perfection on
the plants, and the little care and labor required in growing them, all com-
bine to entitle it justly to rank foremost amongst forcing plants for the draw-
ing-room, &.C.

I allude, at present, principally to the many charming varieties of the
lovely A. indica. Among these, we have whites, purples, and scarlets of
all shades, thus affording the most pleasing variety. No plants are more
easily got into bloom early in autumn than the varieties of A. indica. They
only require to be set growing early in spring, so that they may set their
buds in the commencement of the summer ; by this means, the wood be-
comes thoroughly ripened, and the buds well matured. And this is a most
important point ; for, without well ripened wood and properly matured buds,
we cannot expect to have a fine bloom. If the wood is well ripened, and
the buds well set, the plants will be benefited by being set out in the open
air in the latter part of August and the beginning of September, and they
will then be in a fit state to force into bloom at any time they may be
wanted. Some kinds are better fitted for forcing than others. The old A.
indica alba is one of the best to commence with ; I have seen it beautifully
in bloom the first week in November. Next to A. indica alba, is the A.
indica phoenicea, and phcenicea grandiflora ; then Smith's coccinea, and, after
it, any of the other varieties. I have seen many of the finest sorts in flower
at Christmas. The lovely A. i. variegata is well suited for this purpose,
as is also the pretty A. i. exquisita; indeed, the whole of this beautiful
genus. As decorations for the drawing-room, they possess other advan-
tages, besides those already enumerated, over most hard-wooded plants.
In the dry atmosphere of a drawing-room, they remain, for the space of
six weeks or more, a perfect blaze of floral grandeur ; and the plants come
out, if they have been properly attended to in watering, in as good health
as when they were taken in. Many other hard-wooded plants drop their
flowers in the dry atmosphere of dwellings ; but not so with the azalea.
They appear quite at home there. Indeed, I have seen many of the del-
icate-flowered sorts more beautiful at Christmas in the drawing-room, than
I have seen the same sorts in May. It is well known that many of the
delicate flowered varieties suffer from the effects of the sun in May. Now,
these very kinds in winter have their corollas uninjured, and the colors in
perfect beauty. After the plants are once forced, they are ready to be set
growing in the spring ; they then have all the summer to ripen their wood
and set their buds, and, in the autumn, they will be well fitted for forcing,
when they will repay tenfold any little trouble bestowed on them.

No group of plants deserves to be so extensively cultivated as this class
of azaleas. By introducing a plant or two at a time into heat, they can be
had in bloom from November to June, inclusive. — {Gard. Journ., 1847,
p. 324.)

General Notices. 181

Pruning Heaths. — Before the heath-grower has recourse to the ^nife, he
must determine which of two objects he intends to effect, — to improve the
natural habit of his plant, or to induce a perfectly artificial one. By the
former, he procures the greatest amount of fine blooming branches, and, at
the same time, preserves the natural characteristics of the plants ; by the
latter, a beautifully symmetrical plant, with its natural charecter destroyed,
is obtained, and with what would have been noble masses of bloom broken
into a host of small spikelets. The prevailing practice of tying and clip-
ping a plant into a perfect pyramid is, I conceive, at variance with good
taste, sacrificing, as it does in many instances, noble bearing, graceful and
picturesque outline, at the shrine of unmeaning formality. Gardeners who
profess to take Nature as their preceptress would better illustrate her pre-
cepts by improving than by creating.

There are many heaths which never require the knife. Their natural
disposition of growth is such that its application would mar instead of im-
prove them. Of such may be instanced tricolor, Banksiana, aristata, its
varieties and allies. These are only instanced at random to illustrate the
method of growth alluded to. They are naturally bushy and symmetrical,
but without artificial formality. 'J'he vestitas are disposed to grow naked ;
they can be improved by the judicious application of the knife, but to tie
and cramp them into pyramids is to destroy the noble appearance they would
otherwise assume. Again, pyramidalis, trossula, persoluta, Willmorei,
Pattersoniana, admit of an extensive use of the knife. Some, as cerin-
thoides and its varieties, with costata superba, exhibit peculiarities of growth
unperceived in any others. The former is continually throwing out young
shoots from its collar ; stem, it cannot lay claim to any. The latter throws
up blooming shoots twelve or eighteen inches in height, bearing whorls of
bloom at intervals of four or five inches. Cerinthoides can, at any time, be
induced to form a bushy plant by cutting it down to the Cycas-like protu-
berance at the collar. With aristata superba little can be done besides cut-
ting off the blooming stalks immediately after flowering, as its disposition of
growth does not admit of the use of the knife in its adult state.

There are two periods of heath -pruning. In each, a different object be-
ing in view, the principle of pruning must, of course, be varied. In the one
case, the object is to form the plant ; in the other, to induce it to produce
bloom. The foundation of the future plant can, in the majority of cases, be
formed in one season, if pruning is necessary. If the species be of the kind
not admitting the knife, it will form itself; but of these we have nothing to
do at present. Presuming a plant is well formed and full of promise for
future excellence, it now arises, how can it be induced to retain the charac-
ter and reward us by a rich display of bloom. When a heath has produced
its bloom for the season, it immediately commences producing wood for the
next period of blooming. And as the heath, in common with many genera
to which it is allied, increases its growth in the main by the simple elonga-
tion of the growing points, or by laterals near those extremities, and as the
foliage is permanently cast from the wood of more than two seasons' growth^
it follows that, if shoots of eight or ten inches in length are left from year to

VOL. XIV. — NO. IV. 16

182 General Notices.

year, the appearance of the plant will be any thing but pleasing after a few
seasons' growth. As soon as possible after the flowers begin to fade on
the free growing kinds, bring the knife into requisition ; and, in the use of
it, some little practice is necessary, not so much in the mere mechanical
application as in judging of the most suitable places in which to apply it.
Physiology teaches us, and the theory is correct, that those parts of a plant
possessing the greatest amount of fully organized cellular tissue, or that
substance from which all the several parts of a plant, including the repro-
ductive system, derive their formation and nourishment, will produce the
most perfect branches, if means are taken for their proper development.
It follows that the pruning of any given shoot should take place precisely
at the point exhibiting these characteristics in ths highest development.
This being done, the otherwise dormant buds in the immediate vicinity of
the incision will immediately start into activity, and the result will be strong
and vigorous shoots, which, if left untouched, will continue to grow up to
the expansion of their flower-buds. In fact, a heath can scarcely ever be said
to be wholly inert ; for, except when under the liberal application of the knife,
when of course the system receives a partial check, it is perpetually growing.

I have said, if the shoots produced after pruning are left to themselves,
they will continue elongating till the flowers begin to expand. Now, in
many cases, and in the formation of the formal specimens before alluded to,
it is indispensable that these shoots should again be topped ; the result is
for every shoot which, if left untopped till after blooming, would have pro-
duced nine or twelve inches in length adorned with bloom, three or four
inches each occupy its place, producing a more bushy and pyramidal plant,
it is true, but far deficient in nobleness of appearance.

In conclusion, I would say, never prune beyond the current season's
growth : if so, the result will be puny and sterile shoots, a prey to insects
and such as will never reward you with a creditable bloom. I ought to
mention that, in pruning E. Mirabilis, great caution is necessary, if, indeed,
it should be pruned at all ; blooming, as it does, the whole season, it is apt
to exhaust itself, producing blooms at the top of nearly every shoot when
scarcely an inch in length. The tendency should be checked by pinching
off" a portion of the flowering tops immediately they can be recognized,
which is all that can be done in the way of pruning it. In those species
which never require the knife, the blooms, immediately they begin to fade,
should be removed. As they are invariably produced at the points of the
shoots, great care is necessary that the bud, from which the future shoot
is to spring, is not injured or destroyed in performing the operation. The
best apparatus is a sharp pair of scissors. If the bud is injured, no bloom is
produced the following season. — [Gard. Chron., 1848, pp. 171, 172.)

Asparagus. — The notice in your Calendar of Operations last week, that
" asparagus beds must be manured and pricked over," reminds me of an
intention, formed long ago, of oflTsring a remark or two on the general man-
agement of asparagus beds, which I now ask permission to do.

I am not aware that any writer has ever attempted to explain how it is
that the market gardener and the gentleman's gardener differ so very widely

General Notices. 183

in their mode of treating asparagus. The former rnalces it a rule to cover,
early in spring, the surface of his beds, to a considerable depth, with earth
taken from the alleys between them, leaving the top of each smooth and
flat; in which form they remain throughout the growing season. A sim-
ilar operation is performed annually by the latter, but he chooses autumn as
the time for it ; and, in the spring, he forks the soil oiF again, leaving his
beds in the shape of a half cylinder, with the convex side presented to the sun.
Novv,-if it be admitted that any advantage is derivable from covering up
at all, I contend that it is secured by the market gardener's plan alone. He,
by covering at this time of the year, places the crowns of his plants in a
temperature far more congenial to healthy vegetation than that to which
the alternations of April's daily sunshine and nightly frost subject those
lying barely beneath the surface of the ground. Not less advantageous is
it to the plants, as the season advances, to have their roots protected from
the direct influence of the solar rays, whose exciting tendency is to force
the whole crop at once to maturity, leaving nothing for the latter part of
the asparagus season but small, and therefore almost worthless, shoots. As
a regulator of heat, then, we must, I think, acknowledge this covering to
be exceedingly valuable ; but this is not its only, or, indeed, most import-
ant office ; it prevents the rapid abstraction of moisture from about the
roots, which would otherwise take place, just at the time when the nature
of the plant most of all demands it.

Now, on the other hand, what, I ask, can be said in favor of covering in
winter'? Is artificial covering necessary to an indigenous plant whose nat-
ural hardihood art has not impaired? Of what value is manure (if that be
urged as a reason for covering the beds in autumn) to a plant at a time
■when its functions are suspended, and therefore its assimilation of the ele-
ments of manure impossible? And, lastly, why should the surface of the
beds be kept flat at that time of the year only when rain is most abundant
and least serviceable ? In submitting these questions to those of your read-
ers to whom they may apply, I beg respectfully to inform them that I have
not taken a mere theoretical or superficial view of the subject : I have fairly
tried both plans, and for several years, from which experience I pronounce
that of the market gardeners to be immeasurably superior to the other. —
{Gaid. Chron., 1848, p. 172.)

Pears on Quince StocJcs. — I must refer your correspondent " Abdalony-
mus '' to my reply to " Constant Reader," given at p. 372, 1847 ; he will
there find the results of my experience, M-hich will spare my pen, but I feel
that I ought to firmly contradict his assertion — " It is a fact, that few sorts
of pears will grow immediately on quince stocks." I can give him a list of
more than 200 sorts that grow freely without double working. The Virgo-
leuse pear is very inferior to other sorts, the names of which I have given
in the letter above referred to for double working; for \^a]ls or espaliers
they are not " useless ;" let " Abdalonymus " go to Mr. Thompson, at
the Chiswick Gardens, and ask him to show him the fine trees in the west
wall there, some 25 years old, and looking as if they would live for a cen-
tury. Some of our finest old varieties of pear, such as the Crassane and

184 Domestic Notices.

CoJmar, most certainly require a wall lo bring them to perfection, as is also
the case in the northern departments of France, and in Belgium ; but our
best new varieties give the very finest fruit from pyramidal trees on the
quince stock.

It is not a fact " that pears are far more liable to canker upon quince
stocks than upon their own ;" quite the contiary, as I can prove to "Ab-
dalonymus," if he will come and see me. Very many sorts that canker and
are unfruitful here, when grafted on the pear stock, are fruiiful and healthy
in the highest degree when worked on the quince. I will here venture to
repeat what I have before written in your pages, that the " Louise Bonne,
of Jersey," grafted on the pear here, and growing in a light sandy loam,
seldom or never bears clean fruit ; they are always spotted and diseased, and
its shoots are often cankered and unhealthy. 1 have this month taken oif
the heads, for the purpose of re-grafting some fine trees 15 years old, on
this account, and have just finished a plantation of 2000 trees of this sort on
the quince to grow fruit for Covent-garden market, only because it does so
well. Your correspondent does not give any account of his experience ; his
letter seems to me all empty assertion.

Pears upon quince stocks do not " require several years before they come
into a bearing state ;" they often bear the second year from the bud or
graft, and the third year they will bear abundantly. I am not at all sur-
prised at your correspondent being " completely" baflfled ; he has not per-
severed as I have. The fruit from pyramidal trees on the quince occasion-
ally root pruned is not " small and deficient in juice ;''' the finest- flavored
pears I have ever tasted, in this country and in France, have b en the prod-
uce of trees of this description; there is always much more piquancy of
flavor than in pears from walls. I can state rather a stubborn fact in sup-
port of this. 1 sent last October some sieves of Louise Bonne of Jersey, to
Covent-garden market. My salesman reported to me that " they were the
best he had ever seen or tasted."

Now, as to duration : " to die in a few years" will not be the fate of trees
worked on the quince ; witness the healthy trees in the gardens of the Hor-
ticultural Society at Chiswick, which are now more than 20 years old. I
have seen trees on the continent more than 40 years old equally healthy.
Surely this is enough of duration for any earden trees, and for any man of
moderate wishes. — {Gard. Chron., 1848, p. 100.)

Art. IL Domestic Notices.

New York State Agricvhural Society.— The list of premiums for the next
annual Fair, to he held at Buffalo, September next, is published in the Al-
bany Journal, and we shall endeavor to find room for that portion of itrelat-
infT to Fruits and Flowers, in our next. The facilities of communication by

Domestic Notices. 185

railroad, will, no doubt, induce some of our gardeners and amateurs, to con
tribute to the exhibition. It is intended to have, during the week of the
fair, a meeting of Pomologists from different parts of the Union, and Can-
adas, of which due notice will be given in the Agricultural Journals.

Burlington Horticultural Society. — We have received a copy of the re-
port of the committee of this society, with a list of the premiums awarded
the last year (18i7,) which we copy : —

NuRSKiiiES, Fruit and Forest Trees.

The Committee on Nurseries, Fruit, and Forest Trees report : — That
they have not been notified to examine any nurseries, but feel at liberty to
state, generally, that the growing of seedling fruit trees, especially the ap-
ple, and such other hardy trees and vines as are suited to our soil and cli-
mate, has attracted the attention of several of our citizens, and ere long the
demand, though greatly increasing, will meet with a supply of such as are
grown in our own immediate vicinity, which will furnish us with more hardy
trees, and that probably at a cheaper rate than they can be obtained at the
South.

We have examined the orchards, and fruit gardens of such as have re-
quested, and although the number, offered for premium is somewhat limited,
yet we are happy to say, that our examinations fully prove to us, that we
have a superior fruit-growing section — that nature has done her part, and
all that remains to secure the luxury and profit of choice, abundant, and va-
ried fruits, is for us to do ours. Even the eastern part of our county, lying
near the range of the Green Mountains, will, with proper attention, produce
most of the varieties, but especially the apple, which is of more value than
all others, in great abundance. We examined the orchard of Mr. Samuel
Wells, in the easterly part of Underbill, lying near the foot of the highest
elevation in the state. This orchard contains about three acres of ground,
well stocked with trees, most of which are now in bearing, and they present
a very healthy and vigorous growth. The orchard stands upon a southern
exposure, on a loamy soil, interspersed with loose stone and strata of mica
slate, the latter appearing in many places at the surface. The trees are set
with less attention to mathematical lines than to a position best suited to sup-
ply the roots with proper mould, moisture, and nutriment. It is nearly all
grafted, and now produces an abundant supply of many of the best varieties
of apples. This case may well be noticed to prove, that, on a like soil, of
which most of the east part of our county is composed, this most valuable
fruit may be grown. Mr. Wells has once drawn a premium on this orchard,
we now award to him a diploma of the Society.

We have examined the orchard and fruit garden of Chauncey Goodrich,
of Burlington, and find that it contains a great variety of fruits and trees —
also a variety as to age and size. Old trees, that most persons would have
regarded as of no value but for fire wood, and that would have been cut
down and removed as cumbrous to the ground, are renovated and now laden
with choice fruits. Some with hollow trunks, others with one side decayed
or perhaps with a thin lind or part circle of bark or sap-wood only remain-
16*

186 Domestic Notices.

ing, by a course of enriching the ground, scraping, trimming, and engraft-
ing, seem to have sprung into new lil'e, and are now truly interesting and
prolific bearers. The method of trimming this orchard may be regarded as
worthy of notice and imitation. Large limbs, when attached to the tiunk so
as not to be in danger of splitting down, however near the ground, are per-
mitted to remain. The process of trimming is pursued gradually by remov-
ing dead or decaying branches as they may appear, and small limbs from the
extremities of the branches, when found too thick to ripen the fruit. Or-
chards are often injured, and many times wholly destroyed, by cutting off
large limbs and trimming up the trunks of the trees, with a view to get a
symmetrica] or well proportioned top. This orchard contains the greatest
variety of apples w*e have found, many of which are newly introduced into
the country, and are of superior excellence. Mr. Goodrich also has a fine
variety of pears and plums, with grapes and smaller fruits. We therefore
award to him the premium of $5 00 for the best orchard and fruit garden,
taken as a whole, that came under our examination.

The fruit gardens of Prof. J. Torrcy, Sion E. Howard, and John N.
Pomeroy, Esq., are rich treats for the horticulturist to visit. Each of these
gentlemen literally "sits under his own vine and fig-tree." The garden of
Professor Torrey is peculiar for its rare and choice varieties, and to him are
the public indebted for the introduclion of many of these varieties. His ap-
ples, pears, plums, and grapes, are all selected, and the trees and vines
trained under the rules that book-knowledge, derived from experience and
science, fruits out. The result of such training is made manifest in the su-
periority of the fruits produced ; and may serve as a practical hint, that not
only Horticulture, but Agriculture, in all its branches, may be greatly im-
proved by the application of rules, based upon the same lights of experi-
ence and science.

The garden of Mr. Howard, although presenting a fine variety of grapes,
pears, and plums, is more to be distinguished for its number and variety of
peaches. Here are peach trees that have been twelve years standing, and
were brought from New York, and set at three years old, making the age
of the trees fifteen years. They have borne more or less fruit every year
since they were set except the first, and are now bending to the ground under
the burden of their delicious products. Although the peach has been regard-
ed as unsuiled to our climate, and most experiments have failed to produce
it here, yet in this garden, under the care and attention of Mr. Howard's
own hand, may be seen from twenty to twenty-five bushels of this rare fruit,
ripe, and ripening. The trees stand in a southern exposure, and are pro-
tected from the north and west winds by the garden wall and buildings.
Every year they have been attacked by the peach-borer ; but this insect has
been carefully cut out with the knife and destroyed. The arbors, trellises,
and walls around this garden are covered with luxuriant vines, hung with
rich and fragrant clusters of grapes. Grapes are easily cultivated, and form
the greatest luxury in the whole catalogue of fruits ; and no man who has
a square rod of ground unoccupied by buildings, should be without them.

Mr. Pomeroy has a fine variety of pears and grapes. Among his pears,

Domestic Notices. 187

may be found the Bartlelt, Gansell's Bergamot, Bon Chretien, Seckel,
White Doyenne or Yirpalieu, Passe Colmar, St. Germain, and oiher choice
varieties. Of foreign grapes, he has the Black Hamburgh, Miller's Bur-
gundy, Golden Chasselas, Esperione, White Sweet Water, &c. Of na-
tives, the Catawba, Isabella, and what is known in this locality by the
name of the Foote Grape, an early and rich variety ; also the Lyman Grape,
the most hardy and prolific of all grapes, and perhaps the most worthy of
cultivation in our climate. These fruit gardens of Messrs. Torrey, How-
ard and Pomeroy are all worthy of notice and commendation. Yet we
have seen no o-^chard or fruit garden but what might and should be greatly
improved. We allow to each of these gentlemen, in lieu of premiums, a
copy of Gardner's Farmers' Dictionary. We have not been called upon to
examine any forest trees. — David Ii(Md,for the CommiUee.

Fruits and Vegetables.

The Committee on Fruits and Vegetables report the following awards : —
To Joseph Torrey, of Burlington, for the best new variety of Fall

Apples, the Gravenstein, - - - - -$100

To Joseph Torrey, for the bsst new variety of Winter Apples, to

wit, — the "Jonathan," - - - - - 1 00

To Chauncey Goodrich, for the best five sorts of Winter Apples —
the Hubbardston Nonsuch, Baldwin, Danvers Winter Sweet,
Roxbury Russet, and Rhode Island Greening, - - 1 00

To Samuel Wells, of Underbill, for 2d best do., - - - 50

To C. Goodrich, for five best sorts of Fall Apples — the Porter, Gra-
venstein, Scarlet Nonpareil, Fameuse, and new Baking Sweet, 1 00
To C. Goodrich, for the greatest variety of Apples — 55 sorts, - 2 00

To John N. Pomeroy, for the best five varieties of Fall Pears — the
Williams's Bon Chretien, St. Michael's, Gansell's Bergamot,
Seckel, and Van Ness, - - - - - 1 00

To Joseph Torrey, for the best new variety of Fall Pear — Belle Lu-
crative, - - - - - - -100

To John N. Pomeroy, for the two best sorts of Winter Pears — St.

Germain, and Pound Pear, - - - - - 1 00

To Joseph Torrey, for the best new variety of Winter Pear — Beurre

Die], - - - - - - - - 1 00

To Chauncey Goodrich, for the best new variety of Plums — the

" Lombard," - - - - - - -100

To William H. Wilkins, for the best seedling Peach, - - 1 00

To Mrs. Z. Thompson, for the 2d best do., - - - - 50

To James W. Hickok, for the two best specimens of Grapes, requir-
ing protection in vv^inter — Miller's Burgundy, and Sweet-water, 1 00
To Byron Stevens, of Essex, for the best specimen of hardy Grapes,

the" Lyman," - - - - - -100

To Chauncey Goodrich, for the greatest variety of Fruit grown by
one individual, to wit : — 55 sorts of apples, 11 of pears, 11 of
plums, 6 of grapes, and 3 of peaches, - - - 2 00

188 Domestic Notices.

To Mrs. Hannah Thomas, for a basket of assorted Apples, contain-
ing many new varieties, introduced by the late Col. Thomas,
from Canada, - - . . . Diploma.

To N. A. Tucker, for the 6 best Cabbages, . _ - 50

To H. B. Stacy, for the G best Pumpkins, - - - - 50

To Rev. J. K. Converse, for the 6 best Squashes, - . - 50

To N. Stevens, for the 6 best Water Melons, - - - 50

To Usual Pierson, for 2d best do, do. - - - - 25

Montreal HorlicuUural Society. — The first annual report of the directors
of this new society has been forwarded to us, and we are gratified in seeing
the association organized under such good auspices as it appears to have
been from the report ; according to a statement of the Treasurer, the sum
of £22, Canada currency, was awarded in premiums last year ; from sub-
scriptions and exhibition fees, was only £94. The annual exhibition in
September last was well attended, and there were upwards of 1500 articles
displayed for competition. The greenhouse plants were numerous, and the
splendid show of fruit deserving of notice. Appended to the report is a list
of premiums to be awarded in 1848, and a list of the members of the soci-
ety. We wish it every success.

Severity of the Winter.— The winter just passed, though much above the
average temperature, has, notwithstanding, been unusually severe upon
many kinds of fruit trees. Incur grounds, where, for six years, we have
never seen a pear tree in the least injured, some have been killed quite down
to the graft ; others are partially injured so as to require heading in ; these
remarks, however, apply piincipally to trees of a year's growth ; but, among
plums, even trees two or three years from the graft have been somewhat in-
jured. But, singular as it may seem, though pear and plum trees have suf-
fered, evergreens have wintered unusually well ; arbor vita;, which suffered
last year, never looked better; and rhododendrons, which, every winter,
have had their fine foliage more or less blackened, appear as fresh as in the
fall of the year. The mild weather of December and January, alternated
with sudden changes to severe cold, with the thermometer at 12° below
zero, has undoubtedly produced the effects we have alluded to.

Pomological Rules. — We have been highly pleased to learn, during a
late visit to New York and Philadelphia, that our article in our last num-
ber, (p. 97,) reviewing the Rules for "American" Pomology, so called,
adopted by the Massachusetts and other horticultural societies, has received
the sanction of our amateur friends, and the principal cultivators in these
cities. We have not only found that unusual measures were taken, by the
parties who proposed the rules, to have them adopted, but that, from iheir
utter absurdity, they are regarded as a dead letter, and will have no weight
whatever with intelligent pomologists. Had not the question been made one
of a personal nature, the rules would have been rejected by the Pennsylva-
nia Horticultural Society. Members of the Massachusetts Horticultural
Society, who had no knowledge of the wire-pulling in the matter, will un-
doubtedly call fur a reconsideration of the vote.

The Season in Mississippi. — We have peach blooms on seedling trees

Domestic Notices. 189

for over three weeks ; on foreign varieties, for about two weeks ; quince in
bloom, the first I saw on the 29th Feb. ; apricots in bloom on 15th Feb. ;
Chickasaw plum about the 1st. We have pears in bloom on 22d Feb. ;
cabbage plants transplanted two weeks ago. Allha;a leaves large enough
to cut size of sovereign out of; leaves on a few peach trees large enough to
show at a distance of several hundred yards; leaves on pear trees fully
burst forth, (not large, though, of course,) and I can show grafts of the
Swan's Orange pear that are breaking into leaf, with many others equally
forward. These grafts were put in about 1st of Feb. Red wood in bloom,
some black oaks in bloom, white oak buds beginning to burst forth. Ther-
mometer on the 3d, at six o'clock, at 30° ; yesterday noon, 42° ; this noon
at 40°. I had a volunteer stalk of corn with five blades on the 2d ; it is now
" as dead as nits." Strawberries in bloom some time. I have near half of
my corn planted, and Irish potatoes up full six inches. Though it is now
cold, yet the weather must change again in a few days. — Yours, M. W.
Philips, Edwards, Miss., March 5, 1848.

Liberal Premium for the CuUivalion of the Oak. — R. S. Fay, Esq., of
Lynn, has placed, at the disposal of the Essex County Agricultural Society,
one hundred dollars, to be awarded for the best plantation of the oak. We
are glad to see such evidence of an awakening interest in the growth of
forest trees, and we trust Mr. Fay's liberal premium may be the means of
directing attention to this important subject, not only throughout Essex
county, but throughout the State.

Purchase of Mount Vernon by Government. — Probably many of our read-
ers are already aware that memorials are pouring in upon Congress, petition-
ing for the purchase of Mount Vernon, the famous residence of Washington,
and the spot where his remains are now entombed. Two years since, a
number of gentlemen, embracing most of the members of the present Cabi-
net, and several of the senators and representatives in Congress, addressed a
letter to the present proprietor of Mount Vernon, requesting him to specify
the terms upon which he would relinquish the estate to the Nation. To this
letter, Mr. J. A. Washington replied, that his mother, to whom it was be-
queathed, would dispose of it on the following terms : —

"She authorizes me to say that, if Congress thinks proper to make the
application, the government can obtain one hundred and fifty acres of Mount
Vernon, lying between parallel lines, and extending from the Potomac River
to the Alexandria lload, so as to include the buildings, grounds, and tomb,
upon the following terms ; —

" 1st. The remains of General Washington, and of every other member
of the family, now in the family vault at Mount Vernon, shall never be re-
moved from their present resting-place.

" 2d. Every member of the Washington family now living, and no one
else, who may desire it, may be buried there, and shall not be removed after-
wards.

" 3d. The Government shall never sell, rent, nor give, the whole, nor
•any portion of the property that may be conveyed, to any third person.

" 4th. In the event of the dissolution of the existing Federal Government,

190 Massachusetts Horticultural (Society.

the property shall revert to the heirs of John A. Washington, the oldest son
of the present proprietor.

" 5th. That the sum of one hundred thousand dollars in money, or United
States six per cent, stock, running not less than ten, nor more than twenty
years, with interest, payable semi-annually, shall he paid to Mrs. Jane C.
Washington, or to her duly authorized agent, upon the conveyance of the
property to the United States."

On such liberal terms as these, it seems almost impossible that the country
should not respond as with one voice. The sum of $ 100,000, though
seemingly large for 150 acres of land, should not be estimated, when we re-
flect that the spot is consecrated by the remains of one, who was " first in
the hearts of his countrymen," and every true patriot should look upon it as
of no moment in itself. Two monuments are already proposed to his mem-
ory,— one in New York, and the other in Washington City, — and either of
which will cost far more than the sum required for the purchase of Mount
Vernon. Yet, though laudable as these objects are, in all their pomp of ap-
pearance, they can never awaken those patriotic feelings which must well
up in the bosom of every individual who treads the ground hallowed as the
birthplace of Washington — endeared as the home of his declining years, and
consecrated by the deposit of his sacred remains. We hope that our own
Legislature may move in the matter, and pass a resolution approving of the
noble object. — Ed.

Art. III. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, Feb. 26th. — Exhibited. — Flowers : From the President of the
Society, Princess Adelaide, a new yellow tea rose, Pierre de St. Cyr,
(Bourbon,) and Comptesse de Belleveau roses; also Cyprip^dum insigne,
and a small slip of Spiraea prunifolia fl. pi. alba, with one or two flowers
expanded. From Ed. Burns, gardener to S. Bigelow, handsome seedling
cinerarias and pansies. From P. Barnes, cut flowers of seedling azaleas.

March Ath. — Exhibited. — Flowers : From W. Quant, two splendid plants,
with eight or ten spikes of flowers each, of Bletia Tankervillffi.

The committee made the following award : —

Gratuity. — To Wm. Quant, for fine specimens ofBletw TankervillcE, $3.

March llth. — Exhibited. — Flowers: From Messrs. Hovey & Co., six
splendid varieties of Chinese azaleas, as follows : — Leucomegtstre, trium-
phans. Smith's fiilgens, Speciosissimus. New Seedling white.

Award of premiums, as follows : —

Azaleas. — To Messss. Hovey & Co., for the best six varieties of aza-
leas, $6.

March 25th. — Exhibited. — Flowers: From Azell Bowditch, five very
fine bouquets, composed of the rarest and most fragrant flowers, put togeth-
er in very good style. Also, three varieties white tea roses, and fine speci-
mens of the perpetual clove pink. From W. Quant, two specimens of a red

Horticultural Memoranda. 191

seedling azalea, of excellent properties. From William Mellar, Roxbury,
two flowers of seedling camellias.

Vegetables : From Thomas Needham, a brace of encumbers.

HORTICULTURAL MEMORANDA

FOR APRIL.

FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grajpe Vines will now have so far advanced as to require considerable
attention. In the greenhouse, the vines will be in full bud, and, by the last
of the month, in full flower. As soon as the laterals have attained a growth
of two eyes beyond the fruit, they will require stopping ; each lateral
should also be laid in handsomely, and tied firmly to the trellis with good
strong matting. Syringing should now be dispensed with, and damping of
the house noon and night commenced ; this will give a fine moist and genial
atmosphere. Air should be given freely in fine weather, and the house
closed early in the afternoon. As soon as the flowers begin to expand, the
temperature should be slightly increased. In cold-houses, the vines will
now begin to swell their eyes, and due quantities of air should be omitted
to prevent their breaking too rapidly. Syringing should be freely given
when once the eyes begin to swell. Grape vines intended for making new
plantations should now be headed down, repotted, and placed in a favorable
part of the house, where they will make a fine growth, and be ready for
planting about the middle or last of May. Vines in the open air should
now be neatly tied up to the trellis.

Raspberry plant adons may be made this month with success.

Currants and Gooseberries may be planted now.

Strawberry beds should be uncovered, and the surface neatly raked, but
new plantations should not be made till the last of the month.

Pear, Apple, Plum, and other fruit trees, should be planted now.

Grafting Trees may be commenced now, and continued through the
month. Begin with the cherry and plum.

Pruning trees will now occupy all the leisure time when there is much
of a collection of trees ; all dwarf or trained trees should be very carefully
looked over, and every shoot cut in to its proper length.

Pear, Plum and Apple, and other fruit tree stocks, should now be planted
out, making the ground tolerably rich, and digging it to a good depth.

FLOWER DEPARTMENT.

Pelargoniums will be coming into bloom now, and will require some care
to have them in the best condition. Water should be regularly given, and
an abundance of air admitted. At the same time, the plants should be
slightly shaded in the middle of the day, as this will keep the flowers in

192 Hort'icidtural Memoranda,

perfection much longer. Fumigate immediately if any green fly appears.
Young plants may now have another shift to encourage them on ; and, if
the laterals are properly tied out, they will make very fine plants, fit for
exhibition.

Azaleas will now begin to grow, and will require liberal quantities of
water, as also a slight shade. Occasional waterings with guano will ben-
efit thera. Plants intended to make fine specimens another year should be
shifted into larger pots.

Camellias will now be completing their spring growth, and will require
abundant waterings. Syringe freely till the flower-buds are well set.

Fuchsias will now need attention ; all plants intended for flowering well
in June should have a good shift into a rich compost, and be liberally sup-
plied with water ; a succession may also be kept up by bringing forward
young plants.

Achimenes of all the kinds will now begin to bloom, and will need four-
inch pots.

Winter oxalises, done flowering, should be placed away in a frame.
Gloxinias and Gesneras will begin to flower, and will need larger pots.
Japan Lilies will have now so far advanced that the flowering bulbs will
need to be shifted into the pots in which they are to flower. Young seed-
lings and small bulbs which need to be encouraged in their growth should
also be repotted.

Dahlias may still be brought forward in a hotbed or the greenhouse for
early flowering.

Verbenas and petunias shouU now be shifted into larger pots: cuttings
may also be put in for a succession.

Rocket Larkspur seed, now sown in beds, will produce a fine bloom.
Perennial plants of all kinds may now be taken up, divided, and reset.
Posonies may now be transplanted.

Tuberoses, Amaryllis, and Gladiolus may now be potted and brought for-
ward.

Hydrangea japonicas should now be shifted into larger pots.

Chrysanthemums will require to be propagated either from cuttings or
suckers.

Annual Floiver seeds of all hardy kinds may be sown this month in the open
ground, and all tender sorts in pots or boxes, in the hotbed or greenhouse.

Hyacinth and 'lulip beds should have the surface of the soil very carefully
loosened.

Cyclamens, noio done Jlowering , may be removed to a cold frame.

Roses should be well pruned now, always cutting quite out the old wood,
and, except with some few classes, heading in all new shoots very short.
Manure well, and spade the ground.

Cinerarias, as soon as done blooming, should have their flower stems cut
down, and the plants removed to a cold frame.

Chinese Primrose Seeds should be sown now for early flowering in autumn.
The Double Purple and White may now be propagated from cuttings with
saccess.

THE MAGAZINE

HORTICULTURE.

MAY, 1848.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. On the Cultivation and Management of Graj)e
Vines in Pots. By Mr. W, Wright, Gardener to the Hon.
Mrs. RusHouT, near London. With Remarks ujion the
same. By the Editor.

The cultivation of the grape we have ever deemed one of
the most important branches of gardening. In our climate,
the fine foreign varieties cannot be produced in any perfection
in the open air, and we have therefore improved every oppor-
tunity to give all the information which would lead to their
successful management under glass. The culture of this lus-
cious fruit is yearly spreading, and, although a certain degree
of skill, which can only be acquired by practice, is necessary
to raise them in the greatest perfection, yet they may be grown
with fair success by any cultivator of good judgment, who
will bring to his aid the information which may be obtained
from treatises upon the subject. It has been our object to
give all this intelligence in the several volumes of our Mag-
azine.

In our first volume, (p. 37,) we gave an article upon the cul-
tivation of grapes in pots, from our own diary of their manage-
ment, by which we had produced more than twenty clusters
of beautiful Black Hamburgh grapes, weighing nearly ten
pounds, on one vine, not eighteen months from the cutting,
(Vol. I. p. 30,) and, since then, in addition to the several ex-
cellent articles by our correspondents, on the growth of the
vine in pots, we have transferred to our pages the experience
of many of the most successful English grape-growers.

VOL. XIV. — NO. V. 17

194 CulilvaiioTi and Mcmagement of Grcqye Vines in Pots.

Two years ago, at one of the exhibitions of the London
Horticultural Society, Mr. Wright, author of the annexed
paper, presented several pots of Black Hamburgh grapes,
which, from their beauty, attracted universal admiration, and
were awarded a Banksian medal ; it is, therefore, with much
pleasure that we have the opportunity to give the result of

Fig. 19. Black Hamburgh Grape.

Mr. Wright's experience, which we find in the Gardeners'
Journal of a late date, and, accompanying the same, we give
an engraving of one of the plants, {Jig. 19,) as exhibited
above, showing the vigor of growth, and the rich appearance
of the fine clusters of fruit. The article was written in reply
to a new beginner, requesting information on the culture of
vines in pots : —

Cultivation and Majiagement of Grape Yines in Pots. 195

" In the matter of grape-growing, 1 am but a follower of oth-
ers ; and though experience, the best of all schoolmasters, may
have led me to improve upon what I was first taught, I am
not vain enough to think that I have accomplished more than
others have achieved, or are achieving, at the present time.
I have, however, produced from eight to twelve bunches of
grapes, in high perfection, on one small pot, the bunches av-
eraging three quarters of a pound each. If a "novice," by
following my directions, does no more than this, I shall not
have written in vain.

"Many methods have been practised and recommended by
various authors, to all of whom we are much indebted, as too
much cannot be said on a branch of gardening so interesting
and valuable as that of growing grapes in pots, as by it no
border is required, and every person who has room, and
the means, may, now that glass is so cheap, build a house or
pit, in either town or country, and from it have grapes of his
own growth during the greater part of the year. A neat span-
roofed pit, say ten or twelve feet wide, and twenty-five feet
long, with the roof tolerably steep, and sufficiently high to
admit of a footpath up the centre, with a bed on each side,
for fermenting material, or a tank, and the whole thoroughly
heated by hot water, would not be an expensive affair ; and,
from such a house or pit, from two to three hundred bunches
of grapes might annually be calculated upon with certainty.
In point of quality, grapes from pots, if properly ripened, are
always better flavored than those from established vines. This
fact the wasps will quickly demonstrate, if they get into the
house, as they will rarely touch any other, so long as any
fruit remains on the pots.

" But to the subject : in winter, when pruning the vines, I
select the best ripened wood of the kinds required to take the
cuttings or eyes from ; and these are cut into lengths, leaving
about one inch of wood below each bud, as, from that part,
the strongest and best roots are always produced. When a
sufficient number of eyes are prepared, they are put into seed-
pans, in a mixture of leaf-mould and road-sand, in about
equal quantities ; if two or three years old, so much the bet-
ter ; and, after receiving a sufficient watering, are placed in a
greenhouse, or any other place of shelter, merely protecting

196 Cultivation and Management of Grape Vines in Pots.

them from the frost. Here they remain until January, by
which time they will begin to form a callosity, preparatory to
the production of roots : they are then put separately into three-
inch pots, using a little loam with the leaf-mould and road-
sand, and are placed in a temperature of from fifty to sixty
degrees, where they remain until they produce two or three
leaves, by which time the pots will be found full of roots. At
this time, they are shifted into six-inch, or larger, pots, being
guided by the strength of the plants, and state of their roots,
adding more loam to the compost, with a portion of charred
cow-dung, and charred bones. After this shift, the heat is
increased to sixty or eighty degrees, placing the plants as near
the glass as possible, giving abundance of air at every favor-
able opportunity, and keeping the atmosphere of the house as
moist as possible. About the beginning of May, they are re-
moved into ten-inch pots, still adding more loam ; and, as
soon as I find the roots have reached the side of the pots, I
stop each plant back to within two feet of the pot. This stop-
ping of the vine I consider a very essential point, as it strength-
ens them very much at the lower part, and fills up the lower
buds for fruit : by adopting this practice, 1 have had vines
fruitful to within six inches of the pots. When a leading shoot
is fairly started, all lateral shoots are taken out, and, about
the middle of June, the plants receive their final shift, using
pots thirteen inches wide at the top, and twelve inches deep,
and the same compost as before, but adding rather more of
the charred bones and cow-dung. When the pots begin to
fill with roots, the vigorous growth of the vines is commenced
— giving abundance of air throughout the day, shutting up
in the afternoon, at ninety degrees, and plying the syringe
pretty freely, never allowing the foliage to become dry so long
as the sun shines upon the border. By this treatment, it is
astonishing how much growth the plants make during the
night, and, by giving plenty of air during the day, the wood
is short-jointed, hard, and well-ripened. In this manner,
shoots of from fifteen to twenty feet long, and two inches
round, near the pot, have frequently been produced ; each
plant showing from forty to fifty bunches. This year, a rod
seven feet long showed thirty-three bunches, but, of course,
the plant could not bring any thing like this number to per-

Cultivation and Management of Grojye Vines in Pots. 197

fection : several vines, however, have, this season, perfected
eleven bunches each, each bunch averaging from half a pound
to one pound in weight.

"When the vines are grown to the length required for fruit-
ing, they are stopped, leaving three or four laterals to take the
sap, and prevent the plants bursting their principal buds. As
soon as the wood is thoroughly ripened to the length required,
the vines are removed to an airy place, so that the wood may
harden ; and, when the leaves assimie a yellow color, they
are pruned to the length required, and placed in a vinery,
where they get plenty of air, but are just protected from frost.
During their dormant season, the plants receive very little
water, but, before taking them into heat, the pots are thor-
oughly examined, to ascertain the state of the roots, and also
to remove some of the largest pieces of drainage, to facilitate
the protrusion of roots through the bottom of the pots into the
tan beneath. Water is not given for a week after introduc-
ing the plants into heat, as it is found advantageous to keep
the mould tolerably dry ; but, as soon as the soil becomes
warm, it is well soaked with clear tepid soot-water. In this
early stage of their growth, it is best to bring the plant first
into healthy and vigorous growth, showing plenty of fruit and
fine foliage, and then stimulating manures are of service.

" Where a house is devoted to pot- vines alone, every one is
supposed to know how to commence, as to temperature, but
where it happens, as in my case, that the plants are, of ne-
cessity, taken into a temperature of sixty degrees at once, it
is advisable to place them at the coolest end of the house,
with the pots close to the wall, against which the rods are
nailed, in the form of a hoop, turning the point down to the
pot ; they are then covered over with a composition consist-
ing of road-sand and cow-dung, in a plastic state, and by
using the syringe, so as to keep the dressing damp, I gen-
erally succeed in breaking every bud. When fairly broken,
they are set in the place where they are to perfect their fruit,
and receive plenty of water, but not more than they can make
use of. It is advisable to let them become tolerably dry once
a week, and then they receive a thorough soaking of soot, or
manure-water. As the fruit begins to color, water must be
supplied with a cautious hand, but abundance of air must be
17*

19S Descriptions of Select Vai^ietics of Pears.

given, both night and day, if possible, and the weather is at
all favorable.

" Those vines which are very heavily laden with fruit may
be materially assisted by laying them over another pot filled
with good compost, into which they emit roots ; and, by this
means, one half the crop may be supported by the original
roots, and the other portion by the second pot. By this plan,
of course, a large additional supply of roots is provided, and
hence the berries are both better colored, and much finer, than
they could be under ordinary circumstances." — {Gard. Journ.
1847, pp. 308, 309.)

We need not add any thing to the explicit directions of Mr.
Wright. Every amateur will fully appreciate them, and, in
connexion with the other articles we have alluded to in our
previous volumes, he will be at no loss to produce, at least, a
fair crop of grapes on vines in pots. — Ed.

Art II. Descriptions and Engravings of Select Varieties of
Pears. By the Editor.

We continue our descriptions of new pears, among which
will be found some of great excellence, and now, for the first
time, figured and fully described : these are the Duchesse
d'Orleans, Ferdinand de Meester, and Beurre Crapaud, — all
valuable additions to the catalogue of fine pears.

91. Bezi de Montigny. Hort. Soc. Cat. 3d Ed. 1842.

Trouv6 de Montigny. Hort. Soc. Cat. 3d Ed. 1842.
Doyenn6 Musqu6 (■?) of some French collections.

The Bezi de Montigny, {^fig. 20,) though estimated as
scarcely a second-rate fruit in the Catalogue of the London
Horticultural Society, is considered, by many American culti-
vators, to be a pear well worthy of a place in good collec-
tions. So excellent have been some specimens exhibited
before the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, that they

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

199

have been pronounced, under an unknown name, to be
the Urbaniste, one of the best of our autumn pears.
When well grown and fully matured, it has much of the
appearance of the Urbaniste : like that pear, it is of regular
form, with a smooth, yellowish-green skin, and it also pos-
sesses the same melting and refreshing juice : but, while it

Fig. 20. Bezi dc Montigny.

is wanting in the sugary character of the Urbaniste, it nearly
makes up for it in its pleasant musky aroma. We consider
it fully equal to the Bezi de la Motte, which we recently de-
scribed, (XIII. p. 343,) and which some pomologists esteem
a most desirable pear.

It is a free and vigorous grower, bearing regularly and

200 DescrijHions of Select Varieties of Pears.

abundantly, and the fruit is always fair and handsome. In
shape and size, it is very similar to the Urbaniste ; but it may
readily be detected, by one peculiarity, from almost any other
pear, viz., the stem; this is always much swollen at its junc-
tion with the tree, and it is unusually smooth, and distinctly
dotted with whitish specks. It succeeds well either upon the
quince or pear stock. Wood, brownish olive.

Last season, we had the Doyenne Musque in fruit, and, as
we could not detect the least difference, either in the fruit,
wood, or leaves, we have ventured to set it down as a syn-
onyme.

Size^ medium, about three inches long, and two and three
quarter inches in diameter : Form^ obovate, full at the crown,
and obtuse at the stem : Ski7i, fair, smooth, yellowish-green,
becoming paler when mature, russeted at the base of the stem,
slightly tinged with red on the sunny side, and covered with
russet specks : Stem, long, about one and a half inches, curved,
very thick, and much swollen at the end adjoining the branch,
dull brown, usually spotted with grayish white, and inserted
in a shallow cavity : Eye, small, and little depressed : Fleshy
white, fine, melting, and juicy : Flavor, sugary and sprightly,
with a pleasant musky aroma : Core, large : Seeds, large,
brown. Ripe in October.

92. Gansel's Bergamot. Hort. Soc. Cat. 3d Ed. 1842.

Broca's Bergamot,
Ive's Bergamot,
Staunton,
Gurle's Beurr6,
Bonne Rouge,
Diamant,

Gansel's Bergamot, {fig. 21,) though raised nearly a cen-
tury ago, is still one of our most delicious autumn pears.
It cannot, perhaps, be considered quite as well adapted to all
localities as some other varieties, but, where the situation is
favorable, it is a most productive and excellent fruit. Like
many of the older pears, its merits have been overlooked, in
the eagerness to possess new and recently introduced kinds.

The Gansel's Bergamot is a pear of English origin ; and

1- according to Hort. Soc. Cat. 3d Ed. 1842.

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

201

was obtained from the seed of the Autumn Bergamot, by
Lieut.-General Gansel, at his seat at Donneland Hall, near
Colchester, in 1768. By English cultivators, it is justly
esteemed a first-rate pear. The growth of the tree is some-
what spreading, and the leaves have a glaucous or mealy ap-
pearancCj which at once distinguishes it from other varieties.
It succeeds either on the quince or pear stock. Wood dark
gray.

Size^ large, about three inches long, and three and a half
in diameter : Form, regular, roundish, considerably flattened
at each end, and narrowing little towards the stem : Skin,

Fig. 21. Gansel's Bergamot.

fair, smooth, yellowish brown, little russeted on the sunny
side, and regularly covered with green and russety specks :
Stem., short, about half an inch in length, moderately stout,
straight, and deeply inserted in a small round cavity:
Eye, medium size, open, and sunk in a large, round, smooth,
and rather deep basin ; segments of the calyx short and nar-
row : Flesh, yellowish- white, coarse, melting, and very juicy:
Flavor, rich, sugary, and delicious, with a high perfume :
Core, large : Seeds, small, roundish, pale brown. Ripe in
October.

202 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

93. Beurre' d'Anjou, New American Orchardist.

Mr, Kenrick first introduced this excellent pear to the notice
of American cultivators : it was one of several new kinds
which he obtained in Europe, and which were described, for
the first time, in his excellent work. The London Horticul-
tural Society's Catalogue places the Beurre d'Anjou as synon-
ymous with the Brown Beurre : either the true variety could
never have existed in the Society's collection, or a great error

Fig. 22. Beurri. d^Anjou.

must have been committed ; for the two pears are too distinct
in their character to have been considered identical. This
only shows that, even with all the facilities afforded b^r the
Society's collection, errors have occurred, and, in making the
Catalogue our authority in nomenclature, it does not follow
that positive errors should be continued.

The d'Anjou {fig. 22,) is a fruit of much excellence. It comes
in at a good season, among the late fall pears, and is in eating for

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears. 203

a long time. It is also of fine size, the tree vigorous and
healthy, and a most abundant bearer. Young trees, only
four years planted, are completely covered with fruit buds : it
succeeds either upon the quince or pear stock. Wood, pale,
dull yellow. It can be recommended as well worthy a place
in every .collection of pears.

Size^ large, about three inches long, and two and three
quarters in diameter : Form, oblong-obovate, full at the crown,
tapering to an obtuse point at the stem: Skin, fair, smooth,
yellowish, very broadly marked on the sunny side with dull
red, much russeted around the eye, and regularly covered with
minute russet specks : Stem, short, about half an inch long,
thick, curved, and obliquely inserted in a shallow cavity,
formed by uneven swellings and projections of the fruit : Bye,
medium size, open, depressed in a round, regularly formed
basin; segments of the calyx connected, reflexed, thick:
Flesh, yellowish-white, coarse, melting, and juicy : Flavor,
rich, vinous, and sprightly, with a fine aroma : Core, small :
Seeds, long, large, and pointed. Ripe in October and Novem-
ber.

94. DucHEssE d'Orleans. Neio American Orchardist.

The first account we have of this fine pear is that by Mr.
Kenrick, in the American Orchardist, (7th edition, 1S44.)
His authority for the name is M. Oudin, a nurseryman at
Lisieux in France, from whom, Ave believe, he purchased trees.
Mr. Kenrick's description is brief: nothing more is said of its
origin than that it had been " lately received from Normandy."
Mr. Kenrick, with his usual liberality, gave scions to the late
Mr. Manning, in whose collection it first fruited, in 1844
or 1845, and the younger Mr. Manning has fully confirmed
Mr. Kenrick's favorable notice of it, in a short description of
the fruit, from specimens produced in his garden, in our vol-
ume for 1846, (XII. p. 147.) Since then, we have had sev-
eral opportunities of tasting the fruit from Mr. Manning's col-
lection, and we fully agree in all the encomiums which have
been bestowed upon it.

The Duchesse d'Orleans, {fig. 23,) is a very handsome pear,
having a fine yellow skin, mottled with golden russet. The

204 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

tree is vigorous and hardy, and has somewhat of an irregular
spreading habit, though, when young, the branches grow up-
right. It is also a good bearer. Wood, greenish-yellow, with
prominent buds.

Size, large, about three and a half inches long, and two
and a half in diameter : Form, regular, pyramidal, full at

Fig.'i^. Duchessed' Orleans.

the crown, little contracted in the middle, and tapering to the
stem : Skin, slightly rough, light yellow, mottled with golden
russet in the shade, thinly marked with red in the sun, and
sparsely covered with small russet specks : Stem, long, about
one and a quarter inches in length, rather stout, swollen at
the end adjoining the tree, straight, and obliquely inserted in

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears. 205

a fleshy base without any cavity : Eye, medium size, open,
and scarcely depressed ; segments of the calyx short, project-
ing : Flesh, yellowish, fine, buttery, melting, and juicy : Fla-
vor, rich, sugary, and delicious, with a pleasant musky aroma :
Core, medium size : Seeds, medium size, rather long, dark
brown. Ripe in October.

95. Beurre' Crapaud. Hort. Soc. Cat. 3d Ed. 1832.

Some eight or ten years since, the late Hon. John Lowell
exhibited some specimens of pears under this name, but it
does not seem to have been introduced to but few collections.
The Cataloorue of the London Horticultural Society correctly
describes it as a first-rate pear, " of the nature of the White

Fig. 23. Beurre Crapaud.

Doyenne," and it so much resembles that old and favorite sort^
that some cultivators have thought it must be synonymous
with it. It is, however, distinct. In form and color, it bears
a great resemblance ; but it possesses a more musky flavor,

VOL. XIV. — NO. V. 18

206 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears.

and is generally a higher-colored pear than the White Doy-
enne.

In 1842, we received scions of the Beurre Crapaud, {fig-
23,) from Henry Corse, Esq., Montreal; and, in the letter
accompanying the same, he states that, even in that climate,
it was very hardy, and altogether a most superior fruit. Such
good authority for its adaptation to our climate, as well as its
excellence, in connexion with our own knowledge of it, is suf-
ficient to induce us to recommend it as a most desirable vari-
ety. It grows upon the pear or quince, and the wood, which
is exceedingly vigorous, is light yellow.

Size, medium, about two and a half inches broad, and two
and a half long : Form, roundish-obovate, full, and little flat-
tened at the crown, rounding off to the stem end, which is obtuse:
Skin, fair, smooth, deep yellow, beautifully shaded with bright
red in the sun, and covered with small, russet specks : Stem,
short, about half an inch long, stout, curved, largest at the end
adjoining the branch, and inserted, generally obliquely, in a
shallow, open cavity : Eye, medium size, partially closed, and
little depressed in a broad basin ; segments of the calyx short,
stout, stiff", projecting : Flesh, yellowish, fine, melting and
juicy : Flavor, rich, sugary, and delicious, with a fine musky
aroma : Core, large : Seeds, medium size, and brown. Ripe
in October.

96. RoussELET DE Meester. Mag. of Hort. Vol. VIII. p. 58.

Ferdinand de Meester? Noisette, in the Annales de la Soc. d^ Horti-
culture, Vol. XV.

Whether the Rousselet de Meester, or the Ferdinand de
Meester, be the correct name for this pear, we are unable to
say. Mr. Manning described it in our Magazine, (Vol. VIII.
p. 58,) and his specimens were produced on trees the scions
of which were among the first lot received by Messrs Man-
ning and Kenrick, from Dr. Van Mons, in 1835 ; Noisette,
however, describes a pear as the Ferdinand de Meester, which
Van Mons named after his gardener, and it is scarcely possible
that two distinct varieties would be named with so slight a
difference. As Van Mons, in making up his list, would un-
doubtedly send the true names, we infer that, although he

Descriptiojis of Select Varieties of Pears. 207

did dedicate it to his gardener, he only gave part of his name,
and that the addition of Ferdinand was a mistake of Noisette's.
Our specimens were produced on a tree received as the Fer-
dinand de Meester, and, as it is identical with Mr. Manning's
Rousselet de Meester, in the absence of more accurate infor-
mation,, we adhere to his authority.

The Rousselet de Meester, {Jig. 24,) is a fine pear, pos-
sessing a very sugary and melting flesh, and a rich, perfumed

Fig. 24. Rousselet de Meester.

flavor. The tree is a vigorous grower, making strong stocky
wood, of a grayish olive color, and it succeeds well either
upon the quince or pear. From the product of one small
tree, we should judge that it would prove a great bearer.

Size, medium, about two and a half inches long, and two
and a half broad : Form, obovate, regular, little contracted
below the middle, and obtuse at the stem : Skin, smooth,
greenish-yellow, and thinly covered with green and russet

208 Pomological Notices.

specks : Stem^ long, about one and a half inches, rather slen-
der, curved, and obliquely inserted in a small, shallow cavity :
Eye, medium size, open, and sunk in a very shallow basin ;
segments of the calyx very short, rounded : Flesh, yellowish,
little coarse, melting, and very juicy : Flavor, rich, sugary,
very highly perfumed, and delicious : Core, rather large :
Seeds, large, pale brown. Ripe in October,

Art. III. Pomological Notices ; or, Notices respecting New
and Superior Fruits, worthy of General Cultivation. By
the Editor,

Pears.

At page 108, we gave a brief account of several new pears,
which had fruited in our collection the past year, and also of
several which we found noticed in the B071 Jardi?iier for 1848.
Since then, we have received a supplementary Catalogue of
Fruits in the collection of Mr. Rivers, of Sawbridgeworth,
and, as it contains considerable information in regard to some
of the varieties already noticed, as well as others which have
a high reputation, we embody it in our notices here. Mr.
Rivers generally makes an annual tour on the Continent, for
the purpose of collecting new fruits and plants, and his re-
marks are the results of his observations during his visit
the last autumn. Considerable interest has been felt, among
pomologists, in regard to the new Belgian pears said to have
been produced by M. Esperen, and. according to Mr. Rivers,
cultivators will not probably be disappointed in the quality of
most of his seedlings.

" In a recent tour in Belgium," says Mr. Rivers, " I was
enabled, by a special introduction, to see the garden of (I
lament to say the late) Major Esperen. This gentleman de-
voted many years of his life to the raising of new fruits from
seed, more particularly pears. He succeeded in giving to the
gardening world some very valuable late pears. Most of
these are enumerated in my Catalogue ; but I am now ena-
bled to recommend them with the greatest confidence, hav-

New Varieties of Pears. 209

ing seen the parent trees in full bearing this present antumn.
The first in my note-book is —

Belle apres Noel, or Belle de Noel (Esperen.) — This is a
full-sized pear, about the size of the Brown Beurre ; melting
and high-flavored; ripening, according to circumstances of
soil and season, from December to the end of January ; tree
very hardy, and a good bearer.

Bergamotte df Esperen. — A pear of medium size, inclining
to the shape of the Bergamot pear ; melting, high-flavored,
and in perfection from March to the end of April ; tree robust,
hardy, and a good bearer.

Beurre. Bretonneau (Esperen.) — A new sort, not in my Cat-
alogue ; fruit, oval, full-sized, melting, and high-flavored ;
color green, spotted with brown ; in perfection from January
to March ; tree, robust, hardy, and a great bearer.

Bezi(V Esperen. — Fruit, full-sized, slightly turbinated, melt-
ing, and of good flavor ; in season from December to the end
of January ; tree of not very vigorous growth, but a good
bearer.

Elise d'Heyst (Esperen.) — Fruit, of medium size, melting,
and high-flavored ; in season from March to the end of April,
and even till the middle of May, if kept in a cool fruit room.
This pear requires a warm and generous soil ; in cold soils, it
is often not first-rate.

Fondante de Malines (Esperen.) — Fruit of medium size,
melting, and good; season, from January to February; tree
very fertile and vigorous.

Josephine de Maliries (Esperen.) — This is, I believe, a
seedling from the Passe Colmar, which it much resembles in
habit ; fruit rather smaller than those of Passe Colmar ; green
or greenish-yellow when ripe, melting, and excellent ; season,
from March to May. Like all very late pears, this requires
a warm and rather light soil when on the pear stock ; it seems
to do well on the quince, and will doubtless ripen in cold soils,
and situations unfavorable to it on the pear stock. The pa-
rent tree of this variety, when I saw it, formed a beautiful
pyramid, 12 feet high, and covered with fruit.

Napoleon d'Hiver (Esperen.) — Fruit large, turbinated, melt-
ing ; season, January to February ; tree very robust, hardy,
and a great bearer. The parent tree of this variety, appa-
18*

210 Pomological Notices.

rently some ten or twelve years old, was loaded with fine
fruit,

Soldat (F Esjoeren^ or Soldai Laboureur (Esperen.) — Fruit,
large and turbinated, only half-melting, but high-flavored and
excellent ; season, from January to February ; tree very robust,
and a great bearer. I was much delighted with the beauty
of the parent tree of this variety ; it formed a handsome pyr-
amid, on which its large fruit hung at regular distances,
almost as if placed there by the hand of the cultivator.

Suzette de Bavay (Esperen.) — Fruit of medium size, knobby
and irregular in shape, something like the Ne plus Meuris ;
flesh melting, high-flavored, and excellent ; season, from March
to May ; a pear of the highest excellence ; tree very vigorous
and very fertile. This variety, in particular, deserves a place
in every collection.

Triomjihe de Jodoigne. — This pear was raised a short time
since by M. Bouvier, (since deceased,) a great pear amateur
at Jodoigne, in Belgium ; it is one of the very largest of our
melting pears, as large, or even larger, than the Beurre Diel :
flesh, melting and excellent, without the musky flavor pecu-
liar to that variety; season, December; tree astonishingly vig-
orous and robust.

Beurre gris d^Hiver nouveau. — In shape, much like the
Easter Beurre, and equal to it in size. This is a most abun-
dant bearer, as a pyramid on the quince, flesh meltmg and
high-flavored, and ripens from the end of December to the end
of January, or later.

Crassane d'' liiver (Brunont or Bruneau.) — This is far supe-
rior to the Winter Crassane of the late Mr. Knight, both in
size and flavor, being a melting pear of first-rate quality; it
bears freely as a pyramid on the quince, ripening in January
and February, and, in some seasons, will keep till March."

Cherries.

Many new varieties of cherries have recently been intro-
duced into foreign catalogues, and a few of them are thus
noticed by Mr. Rivers.

" Bigarreau de Hildersheim,. — I ate the fruit of this variety,
preserved under muslin, September 10; its flesh was firm,

New Varieties of Cherries. 211

good and sweet, and would have (as 1 have written in my
note-book,) remained good till the end of the month.

Cerise Indulle^ or Early May^ is a small, subacid cherry,
agreeable and valuable for its extreme earliness, as it ripens,
in some seasons, towards the end of May ; it succeeds admi-
rably on the Mahaleb stock, and is very valuable for forcing
in pots, forming a small, compact bush.

Louis Philijipe. — A cherry much like the Kentish, but
sweet and very refreshing. A great bearer, and forms a pretty,
fertile bush.

Reine Hortense^ Monstreuse de Bavay, Belle de Bavay, 16
a la Livre, Belle de Petit Brie — for, like most valuable vari-
eties of fruits, it has numerous synonymes — is a first-rate vari-
ety ; very large, and apparently a hybrid between the May
Duke and Kentish ; flesh soft, very juicy, sweet, and refresh-
ing ; ripening about a fortnight after the May Duke, and may
be kept on the tree under a muslin cover till late in August.

Tardive de Mons, or Merveille de Septembre, is one of the
latest cherries known ; fruit, rather small, flesh very firm,
rather dry, and very sweet. I gathered the fruit from my
specimen tree the 20th of this present month (October;) they
were perfectly sound."

To these we add the following account of a cherry which
is said to be a new variety, but which, from the description,
appears to us to be the Elton.

Great Bigarreaii de Mezel. — A new cherry has recently been
brought to notice in France, and a full account of it is given
in the Revue Horticole. If it is really a new variety, of which
there is some doubt, it v^rill prove a valuable acquisition. As
the variety has already been introduced into our collections,
we copy the following description: —

"This beautiful cherry was discovered at Mezel, a village of
Limagne, near Clermont Ferrand. A full history and de-
scription of it were given to the Horticultural Society of Au-
vergne, by M. Lecoq, the new President of the Society. Ac-
cording to his report, the first information in regard to this
cherry was communicated by M, Ligier de la Prude, who
stated to the Society that he found the tree growing upon his
estate at Mezel. Wishing to be better assured respecting the
qualities and origin of the fruit, the Society appointed a del-

212 Pomological Notices.

egation, consisting of Messrs. Cartier, Bravy, and Martial de
Champflour, to proceed to the premises, and examine the mer-
its of this variety. On the 18th of June, the fruit was at ma-
turity, and, taking a lady of the Society, for the purpose of
making a faithful drawing, the committee proceeded to Mezel,
to accomplish the ohject for which they were appointed. The
fruit was abundant, and in various stages of maturity, as is
usual with the Bigarreaus. The tree was tall, at least thirty
years old, and grafted low on the stock. The cherries were
most abundant, and some of the branches were bending be-
neath their weight, in a graceful manner. The weight of the
fruit is remarkable. Some of the cherries weighed ten
grammes (6| dwts.) each, and, on an average, eleven of them,
weighed accurately, completed a hectogramme, (nearly a fifth
of a lb.,) which gives one hundred and eighteen cherries for a
kilogramme, 21b. 3| oz. avoirdupois,) an enormous weight
when compared with that of other kinds of cherries. One of
the cherries measured nearly four inches in circumference,
and a little more in height.

The form is oval, slightly flattened on the sides, a little ob-
tuse at the base, slightly irregular on the surface, concave at
the part where the stalk is inserted, which is slender and of
middling length. The skin is a fine vermilion red, mingled
with carmine, glossy, and brilliantly polished on the surface.
The flesh is rose-colored, firm, though melting, sweet, and
very good. The stone is small.

The tree is very vigorous. Leaves taken from young trees
measured 7| inches in length, and nearly 4 in width, giving
the tree a foreign aspect. Several trees of this kind are grow-
in^^ at Mezel, and all are grafted ; but the committee think the
variety ' entirely new,' and pronounce it the most beautiful
and the best Bigarreau ever seen. It appears not to be known
elsewhere, and is supposed to have originated at Mezel.''

We have but little doubt that this will prove some well-
known cherry : the size is not remarkable, as the figure accom-
panying the above description does not measure more than that
of the Elton. Neither is the weight to the lb. more than that
of some of our second-size cherries, 57 of the May Duke hav-
ing weighed 1 lb : the Black Tartarian would be much heavier.
Coes Transparent. — We gave a short notice of this Amer-
ican seedling in our last volume, (XIII. p. 423), and there

New Varieties of Plums. 213

stated that we did not think it would prove better than Spar-
hawk's Honey. Since then, we have had the pleasure of re-
ceiving the certificate of Mr. Coe, which accompanied a couple
of trees we purchased of him for our specimen collection, with
a view to compare its qualities with other kinds. But, that
pomologisls may have the originator's account of it, we copy
the certificate here : —

'' The tree is very thrifty, has a beautiful form, and bears
abundantly every year. It sprang from seed planted by him-
self, and never was ingrafted or inoculated. Its fruit, there-
fore, he knoics to be entirely original, and hitherto unknown.

" When ripe, it is large, fair, free from defect or aptness to
rot, and never stains. Its flavor is sweet, sprightly, and de-
licious, and its color a beautiful light red ; and, though its
pulp is very rich, delicate, and melting, the fruit keeps fresh
for several days after picking, and endures transportation
without injury. It is believed, also, to be the earliest cherry
of this climate, (generally ripening early in June,) and, unlike
other kinds, usually furnishes fruit in perfection from three to
five weeks.

"Its excellent qualities are well known in this vicinity, as
well as in Hartford, New Haven, and other places where
specimens have been exhibited. It also sustains a high rep-
utation among fruit-dealers generally, at a distance; and,
when fairly tested, is pronounced, by competent judges, to be
far superior to any other cherry. No person but the subscriber
ever possessed this stock, until March 16, 1846, as, prior to
that date, he had invariably refused to sell or part with it.
To guard against impositions, therefore, every sale made by
him will be accompanied by a certificate under his signa-
ture."

Plums.

Among the new plums, Mr. Rivers names a few which are
fine. It will be seen that he highly prizes the Reine Claude
de Bavay, but, from his statement, it would appear that three
varieties have been described for it.

. De Montfort. — This is much like Royale Hative, but larger;
ripe middle of August; exceedingly rich and good.

214 Pomological Notices.

Imperiale de Milan. — Fruit large, oval, and of a deep pur-
ple ; ripe October 12th ; juicy, sugary, and excellent.

Mamelonne. — This is a plum raised by M. Sageret, a gar-
dener, near Paris ; it is almost grotesque in its shape; instead
of being depressed at the stalk, as most round plums are, it
has a small, nipple-like protuberance, and some of its fruit are
irregularly knobbed ; it is of the green gage family, and much
like it in flavor, parting freely from the stone, and ripening
ten or twelve days before it : color green, densely spotted with
red.

Reine Claude de Bavay. — " I saw the parent tree, a standard
of this very fine plum, in the garden of the late Major Espe-
ren, at Malines, towards the end of last August. It is appa-
rently about fifteen years old ; it was covered with fine fruit ;
they were, indeed, more numerous than the leaves. 1 ate of
fruit produced here on a dwarf standard, preserved under
muslin, October 12th, perfectly fresh and unshrivelled ; shape,
roundish oval ; color, greenish yellow, spotted with red; flesh,
rather firmer than that of Jefferson, but juicy, sugary, rich,
and excellent ; size, between the green gage and Washington ;
indeed, it much resembles the latter in shape ; it has roundish
shining leaves, and smooth shoots, very much resembling the
Washington, only that the former are smaller, and the latter
more slender, and is doubtless a hybrid between that and the
green gage. To this plum hangs a not very agreeable tale.
In 1843, I received it from France, and, in the autumn of
1845, having a report, from a friend on the Continent, of its
great excellence, I advertised plants of it for sale. Not hav-
ing enough, I bought 100 from a most honorable nurseryman
in France. When they arrived, I felt some doubts, owing to
their having prominent, pointed buds. Before I sold any, I
wrote to him expressing my doubts. In reply, I received an
invoice from a nurseryman at Ghent, dated 1843, in which
some plants were charged to him, at a high price, as Reine
Claude de Bavay. As this person at Ghent had stated that
he alone had received this plum from Major Esperen, my scru-
ples were quieted; but, when some plants I had left unsold
came into leaf, in the spring of 1846, I found they were Coe's
Golden Drop. In the autumn of 1846, feeling very anxious that
my friends should have the true sort, and then, beginning to

Neio Varieties of Plums. 215

doubt even those I had first received from France, I wrote to
Mr. Yan Houtte, of Ghent, for 100 of the true sort, to replace
those which I had sent out incorrect in 1845. I sent these to
my friends with the fullest conviction they were correct, as
Mr. Van Houtte assured me they were ; and, as Malines is so
short a distance from Ghent, I concluded that they must be.
My chagrin may, therefore, be imagined when these plants, and
grafts from them, came into leaf, in the spring of 1847, to find
them to all appearance nothing but our old green gage, difl!ering,
in leaves and shoots, from those I received first from France, (the
true sort,) which, as I have before stated, much resembles the
Washington in habit. Mr. Low, of Clapton, also advertised
plants of Reine Claude de Bavay in the autumn of 1845 or
spring of 1846. I bought some plants to ascertain if they
were correct, i. e., if they resembled in habit what I consid-
ered to be the true sort, with broad shining leaves. These
proved to be the Green Gage : consequently, I am led to assume
that all those sold by Mr. Low were the same. There are,
therefore, in France, Belgium, and England, three varieties
of plums bearing the name of Reine Claude de Bavay, viz.,
the Green Gage, Coe's Golden Drop, and the true sort. The
uncertainty respecting this plum gave me great annoyance
last summer, and I determined upon a journey to Malines, to
see the parent tree when in fruit. When I arrived at Malines,
I found Major Esperen recently deceased, and I much feared
that my attempt to get a view of the tree would be fruitless.
I obtained, however, through the kindness of Mr. Yan Houtte,
an introduction to Madame Esperen, who seemed to take
pleasure in pointing out to me the numerous proofs of the
horticultural skill of her departed husband. I may here men-
tion, merely to show how superiorly the Belgians and French
manage their fruit trees in the open quarters, (I cannot give
them equal credit for wall trees,) that two small gardens here,
not more than one rood each, contained some hundreds of
pyramidal pears, plums, and apples, nearly all perfect speci-
mens, and covered with fruit."

The October Green Gage, Reine Claude d'Octobre, \s\ so
much like Reine Claude Tardive as not to be worth keeping
distinct ; this is a rather small round plum, exactly like the
Green Gage in color and shape, flesh melting and rich, with

216 Pomologkal Notices.

the Green Gage flavor, but not quite so jnicy ; color green,
spotted with red ; flesh parts freely from the stone. I ate my
fruit October 22d, and found them excellent; it is perfectly
hardy, and its fruit may be preserved on the tree, if the season
is not very wet. till November.

Rivers' s Earhj, No. 1. — I mention this plum only because
it has invariably proved excellent, and on account of my hav-
ing given it a name; it will, in future, be called " Rivers's
Early Favorite ;" its shoots are downy ; it ripens a trifle earlier
than the following, and in flavor is, I think, a little superior.

Rivers'' s Early, No. 2. — This is the hardiest and most pro-
lific of all our early plums ; in fact, it always bears a crop ; I
purpose to call it '• Rivers's Early Prolific." In Covent Gar-
den market, in July last, the fruit sold readily at 7s. per sieve,
containing about half a bushel. The shoots of this are smooth,
although it was raised, like the preceding, from Precoce de
Tours, which has downy shoots ; it may be called the Market
Gardener's Plum, par excellence, on account of its great pro-
ductiveness.

Grapes,

Since our account of several varieties last year, (Vol. XIII.
p. 114,) a few new ones have been introduced to the notice of
cultivators : of the qualities of some of these we have but lit-
tle information ; of the others, we add the following : —

Black Prince Hamburgh. — A new seedling, raised by Mr,
John Williams, of Pitmaston, who gives the following account
of it in the Journal of the Hort. Soc. (Vol. III. p. 44.) The
variety was a cross obtained by impregnating the Black Ham-
burgh with the pollen of the Black Prince, which I consider,
after more than forty years' experience, to be one of the best
grapes we have — not of the perfumed kind. The only defect
I find in the Black Prince is, that the berries grow too much
crowded, and require so much thinning. I therefore wedded
it to the Hamburgh, with a view of obtaining a more loose
open bunch, with the vinous acidity and richness of the
Black Prince. This double object, I think, I have obtained
It ripens earlier than the Hamburgh, and colors with less
heat and light. The plant from which I gathered the bunch

Neiv Varieties of Raspbo-ries. 217

you will receive was planted at the end of a lean-to-roofed
house, and only got a little morning sun, and that but for a
short period, owing to the shade of a large willow tree. You,
therefore, cannot judge what the flavor will be under these
disadvantages, I expect the bunch and berry will be double
their present size, when trained under the roof glass, and the
wood becomes strong.

Mr. Thompson, to whom the grapes were sent, describes it
as follows : — The bunch weighed 1 lb. 3 oz. It was loosely
formed, with long shoalders, and long, slender pedicels. The
berries are oval, being about nine tenths of an inch in diam-
eter from the insertion of the stalk to the opposite end ; and
eight tenths in the transverse direction. The color is blue-
black : in this respect resembling the Black Prince more than
its female parent. The juice is more purple than that of the
Hamburgh, and is sugary and rich. Seeds, two or three in
each berry. The variety deserves to be propagated.

Muscat Escholata. — Some years ago, Mr. Money, a culti-
vator near London, raised several seedling grapes, which he
disseminated considerably among amateurs, but, after a while,
they were pronounced by some to be no different from other
sorts ; or, if seedlings, so much like the parents as not to be
worth keeping distinct The last autumn, some fine speci-
mens of the Muscat Escholata, one of the varieties, were ex-
hibited before the London Horticultural Society, and attract-
ed much attention : a certificate of merit was awarded for
their excellence. The particular characteristics of this vari-
ety are its size, and the length of time it hangs without shank-
ing or shrivelling, — valuable properties in any grape. Mr.
Ward, the exhibitor, stated, that he had had berries in December,
which measured more than four inches in circumference. It
is a white grape, similar to the Muscat of Alexandria, and
well worthy of introduction.

Raspberries.

Large Fruited Monthly — Under this name, Mr. Rivers
has introduced a new variety from the Continent, and, accom-
panying specimens sent to the Horticultural Society for exhi-
bition, 2d November last, he sent the following account of

VOL. XIV. — NO. V. 19

218 Pomological Notices.

it: — " I think it one of the most valuable introductions we
have lately been favored with in this class of fruits. It is, I
believe, of continental origin, and may be called the large-
fruited montlil}'- raspberry : it continues to bear from the end
of August all through September, October, and, if the frost is
not severe, (it does not mind a slight frost,) till the end of
November. The late heavy rains have inj ured its flavor slightly ;
before they visited us, it was quite equal in flavor, as it is in
size, to raspberries in July. To ensure a very abundant crop
in autumn, all the canes should be cut down close to the
ground in spring; but a good autumnal crop may be obtained,
as well as a crop in summer, by leaving one cane, cut in the
usual manner, to each root, cutting the others down closely
for the autumnal crop. My plants are now covered with
fruit in all its stages, and many lateral shoots are just coming
into bloom, so that, if grown in large pots, and placed under
glass, raspberries may be gathered in December. It bears its
autumnal crop from lateral shoots, which each rod puts forth
from every joint, forming a beautiful pyramidal bush. In
this respect, as well as in the superior size and flavor of its
fruit, it difliers from the old variety known as the double-
bearing raspberry. At this moment, my plants are borne
down with the weight of fruit upon them.

Strawberries.

Notwithstanding the production of many varieties of straw-
berries by English cultivators, the Keen's Seedling and the
British Queen yet maintain their supremacy, and probably
the most extensively cultivated strawberry in Britain is the
former variety. Mr. Myatt, the originator of the latter, has
raised several seedlings within a few years, which have been
named and disseminated, but they have no great merit to
recommend them. Like many seedlings, they are no better,
if scarcely as good, as the parents, and, after a few years,
they will go out of cultivation altogether. This has been the
case with numerous highly prized seedlings raised here ; over-
rated at first, they always disappoint the expectations of cul-
tivators.

If we can place any belief in the advertisement, a most re-

Neil) Varieties of Strawberries. 219

markable strawberry has recently been produced in Scotland.
The Aberdeen Beehive is the name of this variety, the " finest
ever produced." Had the raiser been content to make any rea-
sonable statement, there would be some hope that a very val-
uable acquisition had been made to the varieties of this deli-
cious fruit : but when it is asserted that o)ie plant will pro-
duce equal to tiDeiity of any other sort, all who know any
thing of our fine kinds will at once draw their own inferences
in regard to the productiveness of the Beehive. Some of our
ctioice varieties produce 50 berries on one plant : will any
body believe one plant will produce one thousand 1 We al-
ready have this variety in bearing, in pots, and see nothing, so
far, of its superiority over other kinds : it is not large, and its
whole merit, if it have any, must consist in its productiveness.
The following is the description given by Mr. Mathewson, of
Aberdeen, the originator of the strawberry : —

Aberdeen Beehive. — The greatest bearer ever known : one
plant will produce a number equal to twenty of any other
sort. Each plant throws from fifty to one hundred and
twenty clusters, forming a top resembling a beehive, and so
regularly do they ripen, that they maybe gathered in bunches
of from twelve to thirty berries. The unprecedented number
of three hundred thirty-four have been taken from a single
plant at one time. It answers admirably in forcing, twelve
pots having carried, this season, five thousand six hundred
berries. The extraordinary quality and appearance of the
fruit is more than can be described or comprehended, but by
those who have actually seen them on the ground or table,
where they have excited curiosity and admiration. The ber-
ries are about one size, and measure three and a half inches
in circumference ; their shape is round, of a bright scarlet color,
garnished with a beautiful green husk, folded towards the
stalk ; high flavor and delightful aroma ; makes an excellent
preserve, the interior being the same in color as the exterior.
Directions for cultivation are sent by the originator.

Eleanor^ (Myatt's.) — This superb variety produces large,
handsome fruit, is very prolific, of a good robust habit, fine
flavor, and ripens the late fruit off" to a good size. This is Mr.
Myatt's description of this new seedling.

La Liegeoise is the name of a new French strawberry
which is said to be large and fine.

220 Descriptions of Eight New Verbenas.

Art. IV. Descriptions of EigJit New Verbenas. By the

Editor.

In our last number, (p. 170,) we briefly noticed several new
and fine varieties of the verbena, and we now add a full de-
scription of each. Seedlings are easily produced, and thou-
sands are raised every year, but, out of the great number, very
few are sufficiently distinct to deserve a name, or a record in
our pages. The following, however, are particularly new,
distinct, and splendid, and they show how much more, in nov-
elty and variety, is to be attained by continued exertions in
the growth of seedlings. It was a long time before the dahlia
broke into the fancy colors now so much admired, and other
flowers have been cultivated for years without any remark-
able variation. So it has been with the verbena ; but now,
that the plain selfs are giving way to bicolored tints, ere
long, we may look for spotted and striped varieties of great
beauty.

Eximia. — Flowers, light brilliant scarlet, with a distinct
yellow centre : petals large, nearly flat, with good edge : um-
bels, very large, long, compact, and well formed : habit, vigor-
ous : foliage, good. Decidedly the best scarlet yet produced.

Exquisite, (Barnes's.) — Flowers, medium size, of a dark,
dull red, inclining to scarlet, with a distinct, straw-colored cen-
tre : petals, medium size, of good substance, cupped, and well
formed : umbels, medium size, compact, and of good shape :
habit, moderately vigorous : foliage, good. If the color of this
variety was deeper and richer, it would be unexcelled as a
two-colored flower.

Susanna, (Weld's.) — Flowers, medium size, of a fine deep
rose, with a distinct scarlet centre : petals medium size, slightly
starry, little reflexed : umbels, compact, and well formed :
habit, rather slender : foliage, narrow. This is a very fine
verbena. The habit of the plant is not quite so good as the
average of seedlings, but it is a profuse flowerer, and is a
brihiant and distinct sort.

Odorata, (Nugent's.) — Flowers, medium size, ofa pale blush
of pink, with a distinct rose centre : petals, medium size,
cupped : umbels, medium size, rather compact, and of good

Floricultiiral and Botanical Notices. 221

form : habit, moderately vigorous : foliage, thick and good.
This is a fragrant and very delicate variety.

Grandissima. — Flowers, large, of a rich, deep, brilliant crim-
son : petals, cupped, and of good substance : umbels, compact,
well formed : habit, vigorous : foliage, good. This is the best
really crimso7i verbena we have ever seen: it is just the color
of Bouquet of Flora rose.

Bnmette. — Flowers, medium size, of a rich dark scarlet,
with a distinct maroon centre : petals, slightly starry and re-
flexed : umbels, medium size, well formed : habit, rather
slender : foliage, small and good. A new and very distinct
verbena.

Favorite. — Flowers, large, pale blush, with a fine pink cen-
tre: petals, large, partially cupped, and Avell formed : umbels,
large, and moderately compact : habit, vigorous : foliage, large
and good. This is a handsome verbena, a strong grower, and
perhaps too strong for growing with others of a more procum-
bent habit.

Sylph. — Flowers, medium size, of a delicate flesh color, or
blush white, tinted with pale rose : petals, good size, of fine
substance, well formed, and little reflexed : umbels, medium
size, rather compact, and well formed : habit, vigorous, erect,
with a neat and pretty foliage. A peculiarly exquisite variety,
from the delicate tintings of rose on its waxy petals.

These eight varieties, added to those already described
in our Magazine, make the whole number upwards of
sixty.

Art. V. Ploricidtural dud Botanical Notices of New and
Beaiitifid Plants figured in Foreign Periodicals ; with
Descriptions of those recently introduced to, or originated i?t,
American Gardens.

Whitfieldia. latci'itia, a pretty stove plant, with drooping
racemes of pale orange flowers, is now in bloom in our col-
lection. It IS one of the fine acquisitions of Mr. Whitfield, in
Sierra Leone. The plant is yet weak from recent importa-
tion, but it will prove a valuable acquisition.

19*

222 Floi'icultural and Botanical Notices.

Tecoma jasmitioldcs rosea. — Are amateur lovers of beauti-
ful plants aware of the elegance of this fine variety of the Tec-
oma ? Unlike the species, young plants a foot high bloom
freely in 5i:r-inch pots, and the delicate rosy tints of the corols,
with their deeper-colored throat, are of the greatest beauty.

Beckys New Pelargoniiims will be splendidly in flower in
our collection from the present time, to the last of June, and am-
ateurs of this most beautiful of plants are invited to examine
them. Aurora, Desdemona, Zanzummin, Isabella, and other
seedlings of 1845 are superb ; but Cassandra, Honora, Centu-
rion, Blanche, and others, seedUngs of 1845, are surpassingly
fine.

57. Rhodode'ndron java'nicum Bennett Java Rhododendron.
(EricdcecE.) Java.

A greenhouse shrub ; growing five or six feet hiih ; with yellow (lowers ; appearing in spring ;
increased by layers and grafting ; cultivated in healh mould, loam, and sand. Flore desSerres,
1847, pi. i93.

Of certain families of plants which have long been inhab-
itants of our gardens, there has ever been a great desire to pos-
sess varieties with yellow flowers ; the pseony, the camellia,
the rhododendron, and others, are of this number. Recently, a
yellow pseony has been introduced. Mr. Fortune brought
home what is said to be a yellow camellia ; and now we have,
from Java, a true yellow rhododendron. A magnificent thing
it is, according to the plate, but much more brilliant must the
flower itself be. We cannot better convey an idea of its beauty
than in a translation of the descriptive account annexed to the
figure : — "The introduction of a plant like this is one of the
highest good fortunes for our gardens, both as a distinct spe-
cies, and as an ornamental plant. Botanists have, for some
time, been conversant with it, from the description of it given
by Mr. Blume, who first discovered it on the mountains of
Salak, in the island of Java. M. Horsfield also found it on
the volcanic mountains which traverse this isle, at an eleva-
tion of 4,000 feet above the level of the sea. M. Ad. Papeleu
saw it in 1840, and sent to M. Van Houtte several plants, but
they unfortunately perished on the route. It is to M. Lobb
ihat we are indebted for the honor of its introduction in a liv-
ing state to Europe, — an honor of the highest merit, for, with-
out the fear of being taxed with exaggeration, we consider it

Flor'icultiiral and, Botanical Notices. 223

one of the most beautiful and important plants for the orna-
ment of our gardens, which has been introduced for a long
time. We have said it was one of the most important plants.
In effect, may Ave not be permitted to think there is not one
species so distinguished for its deep and unusual color, or for its
brilliant foliage, covered beneath with curious starry scales,
and who' can foretel what a fruitful source of producing new
varieties it will be, in the hands of our clever florists, by cross-
ing with the rhododendrons of India, — those of Asia Minor, —
of America, and of Europe? In the mean time, its large and
numerous flowers, of a deep orange, scattered with several
purple spots ; its ten stamens of a bright crimson hue, relieved
by a starry, rose-colored throat ; its fine and ample shining
foliage, of the deepest green, &c., will command the approba-
tion of all amateurs without difliculty."

It will thrive in the greenhouse, coming, as it does, from a
high elevation, but its great value will be for producing new
and elegant hybrids between our American species, which,
without losing their hardiness, will be greatly enhanced in the
diversity of their colors. {Flore des Serres, Dec.)

58. ScuTELLA^jA Ventena^i Hook. Ventenats Scutellaria.

{Lamidcea.) South America.

A sreenhonse plant ; willi scarlet flowers ; appearing in autumn ; increased by cuttings ; culti-
vated in leaf mould, loam, and sai.d. Flore des Serres, 1847, pi. 295.

A pretty species, with spikes of scarlet flowers, appearing
in autumn. " We have it," says Van Houtte, "now blooming
under our own eyes, at the moment we write (3d Nov ) It
has been in flower more than three months, and we can affirm
conscientiously, that it is, for the stove, truly a most ornamental
plant, on account of the numerous terminal spikes of deep
scarlet flowers." It is readily increased by cuttings. {Flore
des Serres, Dec.)

59. Pentarha^phia cube'nsis Decaisne Cuba Pentarhaphia.

(Gesweracese.) Cuba.

a stove plant ; growin?t\vo feet lilijh ; with orange-colored tlowers ; appearing in summer ; in-
creased by cuttings ; cultivated in le.if inoiUd, loam, ai.d sand. Flore des cerres, lt)47, pi. ,97.

A very pretty gesneraceous plant, of a shrubby habit, pro-
ducing a profusion of pendulous, orange-colored, tubular blos-
soms throughout the autumn months. The stem is erect, reg-

224 Floriciiltural and Botanical Notices.

ularly and alternately branched, and the leaves, which are
small and obovate, are produced in tufts of three, from the
axils of which spring its numerous orange-colored corols. It
should have the same treatment as other Gesnerese, and is
well worthy a place in every good collection. {Flore dcs Ser-
re5, Dec.)

60. Convo'lvulus tri'color var. vitta^tus. New Striped
Dwarf Convolvulus. {ConvolviddcecB.) Garden Hybrid.

The well-known Convolvulus tricolor is one of the prettiest
of our annuals, and, for grouping in masses with the petunia,
is esteemed by all lovers of flowers. The present subject is a
variety produced by M. Defougeres, florist of Moulin, and the
seeds first disseminated by Vilmorin, of Paris. It diflers from
its parent in having the limb of the corols magnificently band-
ed with deep blue, some of the stripes extending quite to
the centre : in other respects, it is like the C. tricolor : it is a
fine acquisition to our annual plants. {Flore des Serres^ Dec.)

61. A'llium ciKRuYEUM Pttllas Blue-flowered Allium.

{Lilidccfz.) Russia.

A hardy bnlb ; growing two feet liiiili ; witli deep blue flowers ; appearing in spring ; increased by
seeds and offsets ; cultivated in any good soil. Flore des Serres, 1847, pi. 300.

A showy and desirable species of the allium, which will
prove a fine acquisition to our hardy perennials, coming, as it
does, from Asiatic Russia, where it was discovered by Pallas.
It throws up a stem one or two feet high, terminated with a
globular head of azure blue flowers. It is easily grown from
seeds, or oflsets from the old bulbs. A rather dry situation,
well exposed to the sun, suits it best. {Flore des Serres^ Dec.)

62. TROPiE^OLUM UMBELLA^TUM Jamesou Umbel-flowered

Tropseolum. ( Tropoibkoe.') Quito.

A greenhouse climber, growing six feet hi-;h : with yellow and orange flowers; appealing in
summer ; increased by iJie roots: cultivated in heath soil and loam. Flore des Serres, lb47.pl.
302.

The tropsBolums are among the prettiest of plants, but yet
it is rare to see a specimen in our collections. We hope they
will soon be better known; trained over a balloon trellis, or
even scrambling up some dry branch, the profusion of bloom
will ilways repay all the attention bestowed upon the plants.
T. umbellatum is particularly fine ; the flowers being cylin-
drical, of a deep orange and yellow. {Flore des Serres, Dec.)

Strawberry Report, read before Cincinnati Hart. Soc. 225

REVIEWS.

Art. I. Strawberry Report, read before the Cincinnati Hor-
ticultural Society, August, 1847, and ordered to be pub-
lished. Pamphlet, 8vo. 14 pp. Cincinnati, 1848.

If there is any one subject with which our readers have
been surfeited, it is the vexed strawberry question ; and we
are not sure but all of them would be glad were we to devote
no more room to its consideration. So absurd are the notions
of some writers, that we certainly do not deem them worthy
of further attention. But, in the present instance, we have the
deliberate report of the Cincinnati Horticultural Society upon
this matter ; and, if we did not think it desirable to enter at
length into a review of the report, respect for so honorable a
body would not allow us to pass by it in silence, especially as
we are personally concerned in the question.

It is almost unnecessary for us to repeat that we have ever
felt a great degree of interest in the cultivation of the straw-
berry : for more than twenty years, we have given this fruit
more attention than we have bestowed upon any other, and,
during that period, every variety of foreign or native growth,
having any reputation, has been cultivated and examined
under our own eye ; with such experience, we flatter ourselves
that we can speak with nearly as much confidence as any of
the members of the committee, who drew up the report, and
probably with more than some of them. Without, however,
arrogating to ourselves an undue share of information, we
proceed to as brief a notice of the report as its importance will
admit of.

Our correspondent, Mr. Ernst, was chairman of the Com-
mittee, having associated with him Messrs. Geo. Graham,
S. S. Jackson, John Lea, N. Shaler, S. Mosher, and I. A.
Warder :

The Committee to whom was referred the investigation of the Sexual
Characters of the Strawberry, beg leave to report : —

That they have endeavored to discharge, in the most thorough manner,
the duty imposed upon them, by investigating, with note-book in hand, the
condition of various kinds of Strawberries, at the different stages of their
progress, from the blossom to the ripened fruit, so as to observe any pe-

226 Strmohernj Report, read before Cincinnati Hort. Sac.

culiarities of inflorescence, and watch the consequent effects upon the fruc-
tification. As an evidence of the fidelity with which your Committee have
discharged their duty, allow them to say, that this Report is based upon
more than two hundred and seventy recorded observations, which were
made with critical accuracy, and as extended, in almost every instance, as
it was possible to render them ; hence, it may be safely assumed, that they
have now sufficient data, and abounding testimony to prove the postulates
they intend to lay down in this report. The whole subject has been so ably
and so frequently explained to this Society and community, that there is
nothing now left for your Committee, who only reiterate truths well estab-
lished and generally admitted among us.

The first observations were made on the fourth day of last May, at the
gardens of Messrs. A H. Ernst, S. S. Jackson, Wm. Heaver, and N.
Longworth, Esq., where were found most of the celebrated varieties so
highly vaunted in the Eastern states and in Europe. In these gardens, the
several kinds were cultivated with the greatest care, and kept as distinct as
possible from contamination one with another ; and as these cultivators have
spared no expense in obtaining their stocks from eastern establishments of
the highest note, you may rest assured that the several kinds are correctly
marked, as they were received, unavoidable accidents and the errors of
those who packed them, alone excepted.

Extended and repeated observations were also made at later periods
throughout the season of fruiting, at these and other places, among which
the " Garden of Eden " must be mentioned as a spot where many varieties
are cultivated, and a great number of new seedlings are coming on; all
grown with great care— the kinds being kept apart — indeed, so great is the
tendency of this plant to spread itself by runners, that too much care can-
not be exercised to keep the kinds separate until the grower has made him-
self perfectly familiar with the distinctions of foliage, pubescence, habit, &c.,
of each, and this will require close observation and a practised eye ; though
some varieties are sufficiently well marked in their characters. Thus,
Hovey's Seedling may be easily recognized by any one upon a very slight
acquaintance, and it is difficult for us to conceive how the Editor of the
Horticulturist, who is supposed to be a practical gardener and botanist,
could, by possibility, have thought he was cultivating the true Hovey's
Seedling (pistillale) which he informs us (pages 85 and 160, vol. 1.) were
covered with staminate flowers ; unless, indeed, the source from which his
bed was planted was impure, and contained some staminate plants which
had not been recognized. For the want of this kind of practical knowledge,
we would fain believe, rather than from any willingness to deceive their
purchasers, our eastern cultivators have sometimes sent us diflferent kinds
in the same parcel, and in different parcels with the same labels attached, as
has been observed by the committee in their recent investigations.

The committee, after carefully collating and reviewing the
facts which they have observed, present tiine conclusions or
postulates deduced from their nnited observations, viz. : —

Strawberry Report, read before Cincinnati Hort. Sjc. 227

1. That there are many different varieties of the strawberry, which are
characterized in part by the foliage, pubescence, mode of growth, and fruit,
and also, by their injiorescence,

2. That the varieties of inflorescence, (the most important to the culti-
vator,) consist in the greater or less development of the stamens and pistils,
respectively — upon which are based our terms and classification, " stami-
natc'' and '■'■ 'pistillate,'''' or, more familiarly with the mass of cultivators,
male and female.

3. That these classes are permanent aberrations from what the great
LinncBus considered the normal condition of this genus of plants, as of its
natural family Rosacej;.

4. That nearly all botanists (and among them our most enlightened modern
writers,) have overlooked the important error of Linnaeus, and have simply
copied after him in their descriptions of the strawberry, without verifying
for themselves; while a plain, unlettered market gardener, but a practical
and observing man, discovered the important fact, that, while in some
plants, the flowers are apparently perfect in both sets of organs, one set is
really defective, to a greater or less extent, and in others, the flowers which
we style pistillate, have the stamens so imperfectly developed as entirely to
elude a casual observation, and only to be discovered by a critical observer,
and then, in most instances, found to be wholly abortive.

5. That no pistillate plant will bear a perfect fruit if kept entirely apart
from staminate varieties.

6. That no staminate plants which we have yet seen, can be depended
upon by the cultivator as heavy bearers, though, from some unknown causes,
the pistils may be so well developed as to be followed by a good crop, some
years, and in some situations.

7. That there is no such thing yet known to us, as a perfect-flowered
strawberry plant, in which the blossoms will all be uniformly so well pro-
vided with both sets of organs as to be followed by perfect fruit every year.

8. That the only method of producing this delicious fruit, with any de-
gree of certainty as to the result, is that now adopted by our intelligent
cultivators, namely : to set out plants of both of the sexual classes ; the
relative proportions of each to be determined by experience, selecting such
pistillate kinds as may prove of good size and flavor, and only so many
staminates as may be found necessary for impregnation.

9. That the runners from a strawberry plant are as integral portions of
itself, as the branches and buds of a tree ; and, therefore, that we may al-
ways propagate any variety by this means, with as much certainty as we
perpetuate any variety of apple or other fruit by grafting or inoculation.

These postulates, the committee proceed to substantiate, and
they deny that any staminate variety will ever produce more
than a fair crop ; — the result of their observations on the flow-
ers of such being 42 berries in 100, and only 17 of these per-
fect in shape ! Really, we are constrained to say, our Cin-

228 Strawberry Report^ read before Cincinnati Hort. Soc.

ciiinati friends do not understand the cultivation of the straw-
berry, or else they have not the true sorts cultivated under the
same names at the East.

The views of the committee, as given in the last postulate,
are correct, and they substantiate what we have repeatedly
asserted since the completion of our own experiments.

Forty varieties are named as having passed under the ex-
amination of the committee, and the results of their observa-
tions are given of each. They are divided into two classes,
STAMiNATEs and pisTiLLATEs. Thc average result of the former
is as we have given above.

Passing over all the descriptions and other matter, we at
once come to the portions of the report, which to us are more
important than the discussion of the simple question of stamens
and pistils.

Among the staminate varieties enumerated stands the fol-
lowing : —

Boston Pine (Mr. Hovey's Perfect) has 23 to 24 stamens ;
is hardy, and a great bloomer ; sets i^oV^s of its blossoms;
perfect in less than xV^ths of its fruit, and xl^yths of its
flowers.

What confidence will any cultivator place in a report em-
anating from a Horticultural Society which commits such a
manifest blunder as the above? Who raised "Mr. Hovey's
Perfect," as the committee style it 7 Did any one of them
ever see such a variety noticed in our pages — or described by
us ? No. If such a report can be of any value it must be
correct in the names. To make a statement of the produce
of a plant without knowing whether it is the genuine variety
or not, argues a want of information on the very subject un-
der discussion.

Hovey's Perfect is a misnomer, originated, we believe, in
Philadelphia, and we are astonished that the committee, with
Mr. Ernst at its head, should have made such an error.

Had the genuine variety passed under the notice of the
committee, we could then have questioned the accuracy of
their statement as regards the Boston Pine ; but, as it did not,
we will only name one peculiarity of this variety, which will
show that the committee are not quite aufait upon the straw-
berry culture yet.

Strawberry Report^ read before Cincinnati Hort. Soc. 229

We will suppose that only 42 berries set and perfect their
fruit out of 100 flowers; now it is not material that every
berry should set, provided it is the character of the variety to
push up te}i steins or scapes to each plant, for, if each scape
has ten flowers, then there will be fifty perfect berries, — full
as much as one plant ought to bear. This is precisely the
case with the Boston Pine ; Hovey's Seedling, on the contrary,
will rarely produce more than two stems, bearing each twenty
berries, all, or nearly all, of which will be perfect, provided
they are in the vicinity of staminate kinds. If the committee
will examine our beds in the month of June next, or will
authorize any one to do so for them, they will find that the
Boston Pine is one thing, and the Perfect another — the latter,
if we may believe the report, being very far from deserving
such a name, by whomsoever given.

And lastly : —

Hovey's Great Seedling is now so universally known, and so generally cul-
tivated, that it would be hardly worth while to refer to it again, were it not
for the fact, that two of the leading horticultural journals have differed in
their descriptions and accounts of it. From their observations of it, under
various modes of culture, your Committee think, that, though it stands de-
servedly at the head of the list, still, its splendid appearance and size have
been overrated. The largest ever exhibited here, was five and three-eighth
inches in circumference; and this is a very unusual size. Nor can they
confirm Mr. Hovey's accounts, in his August No. (1847), p. 363, that his
" Seedling, under ordinary treatment, measures five and a half" inches
in circumference ; and this expression, from the connection in which it
stands with preceding words, means the average size. Whereas, all culti-
vators of this fine variety have been forced to regret, that, after the first and
second berries, the size should diminish so rapidly, as it does with us — under
our ordinary culture — so that, when exposed for sale by the quantity, those
persons who seek it for its size alone, are frequently disappointed. It is so
deficient in flavor, that our epicures purchase some of the tart or musky
sorts, to eat with it. Another peculiarity they have not seen mentioned,
but which is familiar to all, is its short period of ripening ; the best berries
are all gathered at the first picking; indeed, there are few left for the
gleaners.

This is blowing hot and cold with the same breath. How
can a variety "deservedly stand at the head," and yet be
"overrated," only "2| to 3 inches in circumference," so

VOL. XIV. NO. V. 20

230 Strawberry Report^ read before Cincinnati Hort. Soc.

" deficient in flavor," (query, acidity,) and ripening oflf so
rapidly that "the best berries are all gathered at the first
picking." A strawberry as large as a pumpkin, with all these
defects, would stand at the bottom of the list, as the committee
well know. It appears to us like a species of deceit for a
committee of a Horticultural society to place a variety "de-
servedly at the head," which does not, in their opinion, be-
long there — no matter what others may think. No, it would
at least have appeared more honest, to say it had been over-
rated, and did not come up to its reputed character.

In regard to our statement as to the size of the berries,
which the committee say they cannot confirm, we reassert
that, "under ordinary treatment, the berries do measure^ye
a?id a half inches.^^ It is not an unusual size. No reasonable
person ever supposed that we intended the product of a whole
crop would "average" as large, but that that would be the
measure of all the principal berries oiiho, first picking. Hun-
dreds of berries were exhibited last year before the Massa-
chusetts Horticultural Society, none of Avhich measured less
than five inches, six berries weighing three and five-eights
ounces. Capt. Lovett, of Beverly, exhibited one quart, con-
taining only thirty-eight berries. (Vol. X. p. 315.)

It would be wasting room to notice the other defects which
the committee name ; but, to show that they do not understand
the cultivation of strawberry at all, or that their soil or climate
is not adapted to it, we ask any of the committee to turn to
our volume of last year, (XIII. pp. 335, 378 and 380,) and
they will there find that several individuals exhibited the
fruit for three successive weeks, each time having berries
measuring^i7e inches. Will the committee call this "gather-
ing all the berries at the first picking with but few left for the
gleaners 7" One of the most valuable qualities of this variety
is the long time it continues in bearing, being, at least, one
week longer than any sort yet known.

Will the committee have us believe that the report is a calm
and unprejudiced exposition of their views? Or shall we
attribute their opinions, like those of the Rev. Mr. Beecher,
who undertook to falsify our views, to a narrow and sectional
feeling 1 Neither of these we would be willing to believe, and
our conclusion is, that their cultivators do not understand the

General Notices. 231

management of the plants, or the cHmate of Cincinnati is
particularly uncongenial to this variety. Everywhere else in
the country, the seedling is all we have ever claimed for it.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General Notices.

On the Culture of Tall or Climbing Roses. — If we wish to convey correct
ideas of plants, we must adhere to botanical descriptions, and not to terms
used in common conversation ; for we find the term tree used in speaking of
ligneous, herbaceous, and even annual plants. We have tree-paeony, tree-
violet, and even tree-mignonette: no wonder, then, that we should have
tree -roses.

The standard rose is generally termed a tree-rose ; and, before we go
further with the subject, it may be necessary to state, that " when the
branches are perennial, and supported upon a trunk, a tree is said to be
formed."

If I recollect rightly, Loudon has somewhere set the boundary mark for a
tree at from " four to six inches diameter, with a single bole or stem."
Now there are rose-plants here with stems six inches in diameter ; still
these dimensions do not constitute them rose-trees ; for the common laurel
will attain a diameter of six feet, and form an enormous head, yet the nor-
mal form of the laurel, as well as that of the rose, is decidedly a shrub ; and
accordingly, in botanical works, we find them constantly so named. The
largest rose-plant to be met with, scarcely amounts to the character of a
small tree, {arbusculus,) by any reasonable stretch of courtesy. But I am
reminded to get rose-plants with the appearance at least, and with the size
of head of a tree (arbor) aye, even of such a tree as the princely cedar, so
graphically portrayed by Ezekiel in his vision of the fall of the kings of
Egypt and Assyria; and if the fall of such a tree be terrible to behold,
surely its standing clad with roses, would be majestic and goodly fair to
see.

The rose is unquestionably the most popular flower known, and its geo-
graphical range embraces, according to Loudon, (Arb. Brit.) Europe, and
the temperate regions of Asia, Africa, and America : in all these, it is said
to be found wild, but not in Australia. Now I have it from an eye-witness,
that, in the wilds of Australia, the rose is seen in abundance, in the form of
sweet-briar ; it seems, therefore, to be as universally distributed as it is uni-
versally admired. From the language of holy writ, it is clear that the rose
was held in high esteem in the days of King Solomon ; for, if we compare
the sentence, "I am the rose of Sharon," as rendered by King James's
translators, with the same sentence in the Douay version of the Bible, " I

232 General Notices.

am the flower of the field," and add the sentence, "I was exalted as a
rose-plant in Jericho," (Eccles. xxiv. 18) we may conclude, that, in the val-
ley of the Jordan, there were fields of roses, and that the rose was there
held in such favor as bordered on veneration, and this 3,000 years be-
fore our day. In Geramb's Pilgrimage to Palestine in 1831, we find the
following passages : — " The plain of Sharon which I traversed, so extolled
in Scripture, was enamelled with flowers," — " Rama, nearly on the borders
of the plain of Sharon, is in a delightful situation," — " The weather was
fbrilliant, and reminded me of the beautiful spring days of Italy;" and
tfarther on, he adds, that, in climbing the hills of Judea, — " where there is
no% a trace of a road or of a plant save a few olive trees and some oaks, and
these look as if scathed with the lightning, — the eye, saddened with the
sterility of the soil, needed some relief, and he turned from this scene of
■rock^, piled one upon another, to luok back at that beautiful plain of Sharon
and the sea which bounds it." We may now see the force of the phrase in
rthe inspired song, " I am the rose of Sharon ;" for, if Sharon be thus lovely
in ruin and under oppression, and after earthquakes, plagues, and plunder-
ings, surely its rosy morn and its palmy day must have been glorious.

The Roraans are said to have rioted among roses, and throughout Chris-
tendom the i'ose has constantly been cultivated around the dwellings of both
rich and poor.

•We readglewing descriptions of " Syria, land of roses,'''' yet we find,
from the clearest evidence, that England boasts many a splendid rose, un-
known and unsurpassed in Syria. The materials are in our own hands, and
tlierefore there is no reasonable cause to hinder us from realizing fields of
roses, eya, and trees of roses large as our wishes. I need not say that this
cannot be aooomplished if we are to confine our ideas of a rose-tree to the
tuft of tiny Tose-twigs on a dog-rose stem tied to an iron poker or a square
slick, whose outline, (especially in winter) resembles that of a besom, with
the handle in the earth and the brush-part in the air.

Let no one imagine that I wish to speak slightingly of the ordinary cul-
ture'of roses. I only wish to push the subject far beyond its present limits,
<to carry roses into fresh pastures, and unite them to living stakes or props,
as " vines are wedded to their elms " in Portugal and Spain.

The ivy, standing in its own strength, is but a sorry shrub, and when un-
assisted with props, or unattended with culture, it only creeps and clambers,
a lowly, uninteresting evergreen, forming a monotonous mass of dense and
dingy foliage, draining the earth of moisture and nourishment, and thereby
starving outright every vegetable in its vicinity which it had failed to choke
with its fleece of leaves ; yet we find the ivy, as at Wrotham Park for ex-
ample, standing on the lawn supported by its own stem, and forming a fine
globular head. There are ivy trees here 30 feel high, with a conical out-
line like that of the Arbor Vitaj. These examples may show how the out-
lines and habits of plants may be altered by subjecting them to a particular
mode of treatment in the training and propping. The honeysuckle, unas-
sisted, is little to be admired in its squat and shapeless mass ; yet every one
will bear witness to its charms when seen to bloom entwined on tree or

General Notices. 233

bower. A mountain-ash in the grounds here has held up to admiration a
plant of the honeysuckle high and wide for many years. A tall spruce fir
propped for a long time another honeysuckle close to the above-mentioned
specimen. I mention this evergreen tree with its honeysuckle, to prove that
climbers or twiners will live and flower among the spray of evergreen trees ;
and further, to show that this is not a new combination, 1 need only quote
the couplet,-

" Not a pine in my grove is there seen
But a woodbine entwines it around."

Cottam and Hallen's cast-iron rose-stake may be regarded as perhaps the
most ornamental and economical dead prop in use. This elegant stake I
quote here, that I may compare its cost with the price of those I am about
to introduce, and likewise that we may continue its services to prop the tiny
growing roses worked upon other rose-stems, in order to bring them near
the eye, so that ladies may closely examine the rose without stooping, and
without being tempted to pluck it ; for, of all the casualties to be guarded
against, that of not leaving the rose upon its stem until the flov/er has faded
is the most important. The price of this stake, six feet long, and strong in
proportion to its length, is said to be Is. 6^d. (Encyclopaedia of Gardening.)
The square heavy heart-ofoak stake, if sufficiently strong to be durable,
and well painted, will cost little less than the iron one above quoted. The
drawbacks to dead props are, first, the necessity for continual painting, then
rust in the iron under ground, and rot in wood at the surface of the ground,
the too slender form of the iron stake, and the unnatural square form of the
wooden one, so much at variance with the nicely-balanced and symmetrical
proportions of live timber, whose wooden trunks are never square like our
wooden rose-prop, neither are they so fine-drawn as the fashionable form of
a standard rose with an iron prop.

The mountain-ash, when growing as a tree, is admirably suited to prop a
climbing rose. Its foliage is pinnate, and not to be easily distinguished
from the foliage of the rose ; the color of its trunk and that of the stem of
the rose are the same ashy grey ; in size, it is decidedly a small-growing
tree ; in habit, it is stifl!'and formal, with spray full of antlers or little hooks,
all tending upwards, just as if Dame Nature had made a tree of pegs to
hang her rosy mantle on. Now the price of these living props, three feet
high, is THREE FOR A PENNY, and six feet high, only a penny each. Good
plants of mountain-ash were delivered here, carriage-paid, this season, at
25s. per 1,000, three feet high, and larger, sizes at Id. each, as 1 have
stated. Now, lest any one should imagine that I think of filling up a
flower-garden with mountain-ash trees, I must beg leave to state, that,
where there is room for the rose-trees that I propose, there will be no lack
of space for the stakes or props, for they will be within the rose-trees.
These rose-trees were never intended for small gardens, and scarcely for
large ones : they are the gigantic materials for fields of flowers high and
wide, of long and deep avenues, the foreground figures fair and fragrant in
the glades and dells of park scenery, where rides and drives invite. The
20*

234 General Notices.

bramble is another brother of the rose family, and this, as well as the
mountain-ash, rambles at large by ravine and crag, growing freely in any
reasonable situation, and in spots where neither grazing nor tillage can be
carried on. Surely, then, we may reasonably hope to establish a climbing
rose in a locality where two brothers of the same family already flourish.

The rose and its prop must be planted young in well-prepared earth ; for,
be it remembered, they will just grow and flower in proportion as they are
fed, and therefore such a spread of foliage as is here expected requires
something like a vine-border to give the necessary supplies of food, &c.

I do not write to please those parties who know so little of rose-culture
as to imagine that roses will not climb very high trees and flower freely.
The Rosa arvensis climbs to the top of an arbor vitae in the grounds here
20 or 30 feet, and its long and gracefully bending shoots may be seen
dangling from the branches of high trees in the woods here and elsewhere.
Loudon mentions (Arb. Brit., p. 790) Eastwell Park, Pains Hill, Clare-
mont, Pepperharrow, Spring Grove, and Fonlhill, where similar specimens
may be seen of Rosa arvensis, and particularly the Ayrshire and the ever-
green roses, producing a fine effect, flowering, and even forming festoons
among high trees. I need scarcely add, that, in length and strength of vine,
many of the cultivated roses equal and even surpass the wild rose. I have
seen climbing roses against a wall here and at other places make shoots 20
feet long in a couple of seasons, and flower profusely ; therefore, if the
Rosa arvensis and its varieties climb trees of their own accord, surely art
might train the twigs of other climbing roses in a track where nature unas-
sisted prompts them to run. There is no plant of easier culture than the
climbing rose ; for all roses grow freely from cuttings, and thrive well in the
common corn-land of the country, and even in places and soils where corn
would scarcely be produced. They never fail running and flowering every
year ; and this running propensity, or, in other words, this truly desirable
quick habit of growth, has hitherto caused this section of the rose family to
be excluded from collections, or, if not excluded, to be unmercifully cut in, in
order to keep them in bounds, which cutting, owing to the peculiar habits of
this section of roses, amounts to nothing less than cutting ofl' their heads ; for,
if they are cut at all, the head or flowering part, being at the tip, is sure to
be sacrificed, whether the cutting be only an inch or a pole in length. The
climbing roses should either have a building to climb on, as a ruin, a bower,
a wall, a trellis, &c., or, failing these, they may readily and cheaply be ac-
commodated with a tree to climb for the small outlay of one penny. This
arrangement is not confined to the culture of climbing roses only, but should
extend to the culture of climbers of all kinds ; for, at the present time,
climbers cannot be grown in gardens, from sheer want of any thing to climb
upon. The grape-vine family, nearly all hardy, but seldom grown, pro-
duces the most beautiful foliage imaginable as a climber ; but, alas ! for
lack of the prop, we lose the service of the vine. In an economical point of
view, the vine is worthy of a place with a tall yew hedge to back it, and,
thus situated, something more than leaves would repay the planter. Any
one who has eaten grapes cooked, even when not fully ripe, will allow that

General Notices. 235

thev are superior to any other tart-fruit, and, as they would come in late in
autumn, could not fail to find a welcome at table when our native fruits
were ripe or dead. The white bryony formed an object of tlie greatest
beauty, growing up the face of a tall clipped yew hedge at Caenwood, in
the kitchen garden. This plant attached itself by its tendrils to the hedge ;
and, as it belongs to Cucurbits, it gives an admirable lesson to cucumber
growers, for it formed a perfect fan, with rays nine feet long, without the
aid of man. The cucumber is a plant adapted by nature for a similar
situation ; for its beautiful tendrils tell that thy were never made to crawl,
but to climb. But I need not go farther than to the pea for an example of
the value of living props : hundreds of persons would grow peas if they had
sticks to prop them with. I saw a neighbor with a row of peas well slicked
with a couple of rows of living beans, which, by a special blunder, had been
sowed after the peas were covered with the soil.

The cultivation of climbers is a field too great to be entered upon here,
and yet too important to be passed over in silence. I have, therefore,
thrown out these hints in passing, and leave it to the lovers and admirers of
this class of plants to carry it out, resting assured that the scarlet trumpets
of that splendid climber, the trumpet-flowering honeysuckle, alone, will
proclaim by their few and feeble specimens the truth of what I am endeavor-
ing to show — namely, that, for want of a prop, we lose the services of the
most beautiful plants that could adorn a garden, ay, and the services too of
valuable esculents. But to return to the rose. The umbrella form of
trellis is well suited to show to advantage certain kinds of roses. Now the
dwarf or weeping ehn, engrafted on the common elm, forms an elegant head
of this form ; and as these artificial drooping -headed trees are monsters, and
grow slowly, they may be kept in dressed ground in small compass for
iiiany years. The one which 1 have before me has been four years planted ;
and one or two others, about ten years planted, have yet but very small
heads. I may here mention that the young shoots of the elm resemble an
immense pinnate leaf, and thus the leaf of the rose harmonizes better with
the foliage of the elm than I was led to expect before I made the comparison
with the rose and elm twigs united.

The weeping ash makes an admirable trellis for a climbing, or rather
a trailing rose, and, having pinnate leaves, the harmony of the foliage with
that of the rose is complete. Nothing but a figure drawn accurately to a
scale can give an idea of the excellent habit of this tree, standing as it does
on a clean single stem, and forming a globular head with a fine bold outline,
which may be varied by pruning to form an umbrella or semi-globular head,
or may be allowed to feather down to the ground, and form an egg-shaped
tent.

Every weeping tree gives the idea of being depressed, and its very nnme
"weeping" implies a lack of comfort ; therefore, it should not be alone,
but have a partner, whose rosy face should look upward, and at the same
time look light and cheerful. To intertwine a weeping ash with roses would
seem to mingle joy with its weeping, and make a striking contrast, since it

236 Retrospective Criticism.

could not fail to excite surprise to see a tree that usually hangs its head,
and never shows a flower, come forth at last arrayed in such a bloom.

Various devices have been resorted to to hide the unsightly shank or
stem of the standard rose, with more or less effect. I have sowed sweet
peas around some, and planted other climbing plants round others, and
have succeeded very well sometimes with such twiners as the ipomceas,
&c., forming a cone of elegant flowers, and making the rose-stake service-
able to support a succession of flowers after the roses had faded. Siill
these creatures of a day, the ipomceas, &c., deserted me in my utmost need,
for the least foul weather made them useless ; and if they grew freel , ihey
would not stop at any reasonable length, and, being so delicate when
young, the smallest accident was sufficient to make a blank. The want of
evergreens in a flower-garden in winter has long been felt, and, in short, to
obtain a succession of beautiful living objects is the aim of every gardener
in planting a garden.

Now in this garden there exists, whether by design or accident I know
not, a thicket of tall yew trees, and in front of these some very tall rhodo-
dendrons, and, drawn up between the yews and the rhododendrons, there
stands a fine rose-bush, and, after the rhododendrons have flowered and
faded, the rose blooms in the face of this " dismal grove of sable yew."
And it is to this contrast of bright rose-color against dark green that I would
invite notice : it sets off" the rose to the greatest advantage, and always at-
tracts attention, it being altogether unlooked for from such a sombre sub-
ject as the yew to wear a blush or other rosy hue upon its sullen face.
Now, although the common yew tree be well adapted to support a climbing
or other rose, from its patiently enduring to be clipped or pruned into any
reasonable or even unreasonable form, I would prefer the Irish yew, and
make the head of the rose stand high enough to bloom above the yew. It
is the ordinary system that nature follows to elevate the panicle or cluster
of flowers of a plant above the foliage. By this combination, we get rid of
the unsightly rose stake, by effectually hiding it in the thick foliage of the
yew, and, instead of a leafless rose, with a long grey switch of a stem tied
to round iron or square tree all the winter, we have an elegant evergreen
tree, admirably suited to the stiff" formal lines of geometrical flower-gar-
dens ; and surely a crown of roses, if properly worn, would set off" to ad-
vantage the staid and sober virtues of the upright yew, neither would it
derogate from its dignity thus to become handmaid to the queen of flowers.

The Robinia pseud-acacia, or common yellow locust-tree, having beauti-
ful pinnate foliage, will make an admirable rose-tree ; and the apple and
pear trees, beautiful and rosy in themselves both in flower and in fruit, in
certain situations might be employed with excellent effect to prop roses. —
(^Journal Hort. Soc. Vol. II., p. )

Art. II. Retrospective Criticism.

The Herbaceous Plants of Massachusetts. (Vol. VII. p. 227) — Soon af-
ter the publication of the Herbaceous Plants of Massachusetts, a cursory

Retrospective Criticism. 237

review of the work appeared in the " Magazine of Horticulture," &c., on
which I wish to offer a few remarks. Though several years have since
elapsed, I had not seen the review till a friend called my attention to it a
few weeks since. As the Magazine of Horticulture will, I hope, long be
known, and be evermore useful, I ask, for the following remarks, a place
on its pages, that the readers may understand the subject when the present
actors shall have passed away.

1. The report was to contain the names of all the known indigenous
plants of the state. 1 was not at liberty, had it been desirable, to select
the most interesting, and to attempt to pursue the course adopted by Dr.
Harris on the insects, which is deservedly commended in the review.

2. The common cultivated plants were to be introduced into the report,
without implying that a multitude of rarer exotics were not cultivated.
Hence it was not proper to take as a standard the extensive and splendid
gardens near Boston, where g^an/e/i and parlor were used in respect to any
cultivated plants. These exotics, rare over the state, would alone have
filled a volume, and not been suited to the object.

3. The descriptions were to be popular, and little of the pure language
of botany to be used. It was very difficult to adopt any satisfactory plan,
without a failure to please mere botanists and horticulturists. Still it had
not then been discovered that the popular course would be the regular sys-
tematic one, and there was no known alternative. I was not insensible to
the imperfections the botanist would perceive, but, under the directions, I
felt that I had no room for selection.

Some unknown writer appreciated the whole subject, and published, in
the American Journal of Science and Arts, Vol. 41, p. 381, a clear and
candid view of the report, such as a knowledge of the case required. Still,
the writer in the magazine doubtless expressed his honest convictions, and
has my regard. It was not then known that the plan of my colleague, Mr.
Emerson, in his excellent Report on the Trees of Massachusetts would be
popular, though the fact has proved it.

4. Though the rose may be ranked with the shrubs, it was agreed, for
obvious reasons, that that genus should be placed where it was.

5. A writer of some distinction has lately published, and in the discus-
sion the last winter, in your city, on the grasses, it was repeated, that
clover is an important grass of the northern states. As the grasses yield so
much food, many, who are not versed in botany, think that clover is a
grass, and put into the same class beans, potatoes, yams, and many more.
I trust this will satisfy the reviewer on a sentence he rather captiously con-
demns.

I trust these reasons, given without asperity, will secure their insertion
in your valuable work.

6. Into one important mistake I was inadvertently led, which is easily
corrected, and which my friend, Prof. Gray, was so kind as to point out to
me. As Prof. Hitchcock had already published the Natural Orders of
Lindley, at the end of his Geology of the State, it seemed desirable not to

238 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

change them. But Order 51, Loaseft, p. 49, should have been omitted,
and the genus, Cenlauella, MX., should be placed at the end of Gentianeae,
p. 149.— C. Dewey, Rochester, N. Y., April, 1848.

Art. III. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, March 4, 1848. — The report of the meeting of the Society on
this day was not received in time for our last number : we now append the
same.

An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day — the President in
the chair.

F. Dana, Roxbury, was admitted a subscription member.

Meeting dissolved.

April \st. — The Stated Quarterly Meeting of the Society was held to-
day— the President in the chair.

C. W. Dabney, Esq., of Fayal, presented the Society with a small quan-
tity of Portugual onion seed, and the thanks of the Society were voted for
the same.

The Finance Committee reported that, in accordance with a vote of the
Society, they had purchased fifteen shares of the Old Colony Rail Road, at
$93^ per share, amounting to $ 1,398 75, and the same had been paid by
the Treasurer. The Committee also reported that the Society's proportion
of new stock in the Worcester Rail-road would require the payment of
several hundred dollars, and, in consequence of this, only the above amount
had now been invested.

They likewise reported that the Store had been re-leased to the present
occupant, for two years, upon the same terms as before.

The President and Recording Secretary were authorized to procure
tickets for the use of the members, and for the purpose of sale, for admis-
sion to the Hall, upon the same terms as in previous years.

Adjourned two weeks, to April 15th.

Exhibited. — Flowers: From J. Quant, a fine plant of the Schizanthus.
From P. Barnes, nine pots of pansies. From Mr. Liversedge, a fine speci-
men of the double Stock.

Gratuities were awarded as follows : —
To. J. Quant, for Schizanthus, $ 1.
To Mr. Liversedge, for Stock, $ 1.

Vegetables : From S. Bigelow, a brace of Latter's Victory of England
cucumber, from seeds sown February 3d.

April 8th. — Exhibited. Fruit : From T. Needham, Keen's Seedling
strawberries.

Vegetables : From T. Needham, a brace of Weedon's prize cucumbers,
a brace of Burns's Man of Kent, and a brace of Manchester prize cucum-
bers.

April Ibth. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day — the
President in the chair.

Horticultural Memoranda. 239

The CommlUee of publication reported that No. 2 of the Society's Trans-
actions was ready for delivery, and that the drawings had been done by
hand at an increased expense.

Adjourned three weeks, to May fith.

Exhibited. — Fruit : Mr. J. F. Allen exhibited the first grapes of the sea-
son, which were of fair size and color ; the varieties were Black Hamburgh
and Miller's Burgundv. From T. Needham, Keen's seedling strawberries.
From S. Weld, Roxbury seedling apples, of fine appearance and pleasant
flavor.

Vegetables : From T. Needham, a brace of Weedon's prize cucumbers,
twenty-one inches in length ; also, Burns's Man of Kent, Black Spine, Sion
House, Young's Champion, Hamstead Black Spine, and Manchester prize.
From S. Bigelow, new potatoes, and a brace of Black Spine cucumbers.

HORTICULTURAL MEMORANDA

FOR MAY.
FRUIT DEPARTMENT.

Grape Vines will now require considerable attention. Early runners will
now have set their fruit, and the berries will be sufficiently swelled for thin-
ning: this will require to be done carefully and well, if fine bunches are
desired ; indiscriminate thinning, without any reference to the natural shape
of the clusters, will greatly injure their appearance. On this head, we
must refer all cultivators to our article in our last volume, (XHL p. 309,) in
which we have given some advice upon the subject. As soon as the bunches
are all thinned, syringing may again be commenced, and the walks well
watered once or twice a day in all fine weather, unless the situation is damp :
keep the laterals well pinched in to one joint. The border may now have
a dressing of guano, and be carefully forked over. In cold houses, the
vines will now be breaking their eyes, and will need liberal syringing, both
morning and evening : nothing is more favorable to an even breakage of the
buds than this : if the tendency of the sap is to the top, then the head of the
shoot should be bent down, bringing it back again to its place after the eyes
have all pushed. Give air in good season, but close early in the after-
noon. Vines in the open air will now need attention. All the shoots
should be carefully tied up to the trellis, and any weak wood should be cut
out ; disbud where the eyes are too thick. Let the soil be enriched with
good manure or guano, and carefully dug.

Raspberry Vines should be firmly tied up to strong stakes, cutting off the
shoots to the length of four or six feet, according to their strength : manure
and spade the ground.

Strawberry beds should be carefully weeded, and put in good order: new
beds may be made all this month.

Grafting Pear and Apple trees may be continued all this month, if the
scions are in good order.

240 Hort'iciiUural Memoranda.

Currant and Gooseberry hushes should be very severely pruned ; for the
want of this, many bushes are wholly spoiled, and the crop lost.

Pruning trees, where there is a large collection, will occupy a great deal
of time, and it should not be done too hastily ; for want of a little thought
in pruning, many trees are much injured in their appearance.

Insects should be looked after ; a few hours' neglect now will require
whole days to extirpate them later, besides the damage which they will
have done to the trees.

FLOWER DEPARTMENT.

Camellias will have completed their growth, and will be forming their
flower-buds : as soon as well developed, the plants .should be immediately
removed to the open air. Frequent syringings should be given in order to
keep the foliage bright and clean, and free from insects.

Pelarironiums will now be out in all their beauty ; the plants should be
nicely staked out if not already done, and an abundance of air should be
given ; a slight shade in the middle of the day will keep the blossoms in
fine order for a great length of time. Keep the green fly down ; and occa-
sionally, not too often, give a little weak guano.

Fuchsias, now growing rapidly, should be shifted into larger pots, tying
every plant up to a straight stake. Water with guano.

Achimenes and Gloxinias will now begin to bloom, and will require re-
potting.

Cactuses, as soon as done flowering, should be carefully repotted.

Neapolitan Violets should betaken up, divided, and new plantations made,
selecting a cool, half-shady place.

Dahlias may be planted out the latter part of the month, before which
time it is scarcely safe to risk good sorts.

Tender Annuals, such as Balsams, Coxcombs, China asters. Ama-
ranths, &c., may now be planted out.

Carnations and Picotees may be planted out now in the open ground in
beds, where they will bloom freely.

Roses of the tender kinds should be propagated now from cuttings.

Chrysanthemums may yet be propagated from cuttings or layers.

Gladioiuses, Tube-roses, Tiger-Aoioers, and other spring bulbs, may be
planted out now.

Daphnes may now be propagated from cuttings, and the plants shifted
into larger pots.

Annual seeds of all kinds may now be sown in the open border.

Pansies, wintered in frames, or raised from seed, should now be planted
out in a f^ood strong soil, in a cool and moist border or bed.

Ixias and Sparaxis, done blooming, may be placed away on a dry shelf,
under the stage, or in a dry room.

Poinsettia pulcherrima, and Euphorbia Jacquinceflora should now be headed
down and they will make fine bushy plants. Put in the cuttings now, if a
larger stock is wanted.

Japan Lily seeds may yet be sown with perfect success.

THE MAGAZINE

HORTICULTURE.

JUNE, 1848.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. Notes on Gardens and Nurseries in the Vicinity of
New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington.
By the Editor.

In the autumn of 1845, we visited several gardens and nurse-
ries in the cities above mentioned, and our notes and memo-
randa, made during our visit, we gave in our volume for 1846,
(XII. p. 241.) Since that period, — little more than two years,
— there has not been a very great change in the state of gar-
dening ; but a recent visit has enabled us to jot down a few
notes, which may not be without interest,

Washington, D. C, March \Oth, 1848. Experimental
Garden of the Natiojial Institute. — This garden, under the
superintendence of our correspondent, Mr. Breckenridge, is
well repaying the expense attending its management : through
the exertions of Mr. Burke, the Commissioner of Patents,
thousands of papers of seeds, raised in the garden, are distrib-
uted, through the representatives of the several states, annually
assembled in Washington, and handsome, and even rare and
choice, kinds of seeds find their way where, through the ordi-
nary course of trade, they would not be probably introduced
for years. In a country extending over so vast a territory as
ours, and deprived, as we are, of cheap postage, this medium
of sending seeds is of the greatest importance ; for it brings to
immediate notice many varieties which would otherwise re-
main but little known for years : thus the beautiful Chinese
primrose, the brilliant portulaca, aud the varied verbena, are

VOL. XIV. NO. VI. 21

242 Notes on Gardens and Nursei'ies.

found growing in the remotest parts of Texas, Wisconsin, and
Maine.

Mr. Breckenridge is now, and has been, for some time, so
much engaged upon the arrangement of the plants, collected
by the Exploring Expedition, for publication, that he has not
been enabled to devote as much time to the garden as usual ;
yet we found every thing healthy, and in good order.

In the houses, many plants were in bloom, and presented a
gay appearance. The Chinese primroses, both white and
purple, were large, finely fringed, and beautiful; a capital
stock to grow seeds from, which he does in considerable quan-
tity. Chorizema cordata is one of the finest flowers of this
elegant group : small plants were quite covered with flowers;
this species seeds freely, and many packages have been dis-
tributed : its deep-colored blossoms present a fine contrast
with the yellow and orange tints of C. varium and others.
The acacias were very showy, especially A. linearis.

In the hothouse, several pitcher-plants (Aepenthes distilla-
toria) were rambling about with the greatest luxuriance : one
planted out in the bark bed had reached the top of the house,
and others in boxes had made numerous shoots. These de-
light in a very loose soil, with plenty of drainage ; many
small plants have been raised from layers, and sent to vari-
ous parts of the country. Several orchideous plants were
growing with the greatest luxuriance, and an Oncidium, sp.,
was in flower.

The spring was yet exceedingly backward, the thermom-
eter indicating 10 or 12° of frost. The Tea and Noisette roses
had, however, wintered well, and were now swelling their buds.
Mr. Breckenridge has some promising seedling roses, and we
hope to give some account of the best after the rose season.
Mr. Breckenridge has an excellent plan for protecting hybrid
perpetual roses, and other plants which need it : this is to
thatch, or completely surround, th^ plants with branches of
cedar or other evergreens, and, drawing the tops together, bind
them so as to throw oflf the rain. This plan seems to suc-
ceed better than straw; it admits of a free circulation of air
and is not so liable to hold moisture as a close covering of
straw. It sufficiently guards the plants from the sun, which
is often more injurious than severe cold.

Garden of John Feast. 243

Garden of Dr. J. aS*. Gunnell. — The camellia now com-
mands the attention of Dr. Gunnell to the exclusion of nearly
all other plants. Some foreign varieties of note have been
added to the collection, but the principal plants we found to
be seedlings. An immense number of these filled the house,
from plants just emerging from the seed to those six feet
high, and now just blooming for the first time. From some
of the impregnations, promising kinds are anticipated ; and, if
■we may judge from the foliage, Dr. Gunnell will not be dis-
appointed.

We have already given Dr Gunnell's views in relation to
the peculiarity of foliage of some kinds of camellias, (p. 161,)
and, as we have proved them in our practice to be correct,
there is but little doubt some new and choice seedlings will
be the result of his labors. C. var.Mrs. Gunnell is well known as
one of the most beautiful white camellias yet produced, and
Gen. Washington is also a superb variety. With such re-
sults already achieved, there is every hope for many unique
and choice seedlings.

Dr. Gunnell adopts what we should think an excellent plan
to bring seedlings into bloom early : this is, to stop the young

growth, by pinching off" the end when about half grown : this
causes the wood to mature, and form new buds. It is well
known that most seedlings have a tendency to grow rapidly,
without sometimes showing buds till six or eight years old :
but, by getting ripe wood early in the season, the plants have
a much greater tendency to form flower-buds. Many fine
varieties were in flower, but we had not time to note them
down.

Balt'vmore, March 15th. — Our time in Baltimore was lim-
ited to a few hours, and we only had the opportunity to call
on Messrs. John and Samuel Feast.

Garden of John Feast. — Mr. Feast's houses, as usual,
were filled with a healthy stock of plants of all kinds. The
camellias, which fill one large house, were looking in better
condition than when we saw them in the fall of 1845. Some
new seedUngs have also flowered, which are said to be very fine.
A white, just opening, was remarkably fine; it is called
Mary Feast. The cactuses fill part of a small house, and
were exceedingly well grown. The stock of roses was large,
and the varieties among the best.

244 The CuUure of the Fig.

In one of the houses, we saw several plants of Justicia
persicsefolia, a fine showy species, with yellow flowers. The
night-bloommgjasmmes were very pretty, with their branches
loaded with white berries. A new crassula, with white flow-
ers, Mr. Feast stated to be very beautiful. Mr. Feast's col-
lection is not so remarkable for novelties, as for an abundant
supply of the popular and generally admired kinds of flow-
ers.

City Garden of S. Feast. — Our time did not give us an
opportunity to visit the out-of-town garden and nursery, but,
connected with his seed store in Charles street, is a large green-
house, which we found filled with a good collection of plants.
Mr. Feast has quite a lot of seedling camellias, and we were
desirous of seeing them. Since our visit, he has forwarded
us a most beautiful seedling, which flowered this year for the
first time, and which we have noticed in another page.
[To be contitiuecL]

Art. II. The Culture of the Fig. By the Editor.

The growth of the fig under glass has recently attracted
considerable attention among cultivators. Flourishing well
in graperies either with or without heat, and producing abun-
dant crops, it has been much sought after, and is greatly
esteemed as a delicious addition to the dessert.

With the increasing desire for the cultivation of the fig,
there is also a want of practical information in relation to its
growth in order that the greatest results may be obtained.
For a long period, it has been cultivated somewhat exten-
sively in England, and the general management of the trees
is detailed by the principal writers upon gardening. To these
sources American authors have been indebted for their in-
formation upon the subject.

Our correspondent, Mr. J. F. Allen, of Salem, has been
highly successful in his treatment of the fig, and annually
produces two fine crops on a large tree on the back wall of a
vinery, which is forced in December. The first crop matures

The Culture of the Fig. 245

in May, and the second in summer. The variety is the Black
Fig of the Azores, an exceedingly rich and luscious fruit.
This his 'been, until recently, the only variety cultivated
around Boston,

Two years ago, Ave received several of the choicest varie-
ties from England, such as the Brown Turkey, Black Ischia,
White Marseilles, Brunswick, White Ischia, &c. These all
bore finely in pots last year, and are again covered with
young fruit, and, when we have completed our experiments,
we shall give our readers the results of our practice.

The present remarks are merely introductory to an excel-
lent paper on the culture of the fig, in the Gardeners' Journal,
being the substance of an essay read before an association of
gardeners at Chelsea, near London ; and we commend it to
the attention of all lovers of this fine fruit : — ■

"Mr. Slow read an Essay on the Culture of the Fig. He
first gave a brief history of the fig ; and then directed atten-
tion to the soil suitable for its growth, as the first point for
consideration. That which he recommended was the turves
from an old pasture, without any manure. The superiority
of turves, in chemical and physical properties, to any other
description of soil, was, as he observed, now a well-established
fact. Figs grown in this alone are not over-luxuriant, a cir-
cumstance which must always be guarded against. The
mode of propagation recommended was by layers, it being
the quickest mode of getting bearing plants, as shoots of one
or two years' growth, if laid down, will make abundance of
roots the first summer, and admit of being taken off in the
autumn, and placed where they are finally to remain. The
sorts of figs recommended as the best suited for hothouse pur-
poses, were the Brown Ischia, Nerii, Marseilles, White Genoa,
and Lee's Perpetual. The essayist then gave his general
treatment of the fig in hothouses as follows : — The time rec-
ommended for pruning was December ; after pruning, every
branch throughout the house to be tied out regularly. Very
little pruning is required in winter, if proper attention is paid
to pinching and stopping the shoots in summer. About the
first week in February, he would fork up the surface of the
border to the depth of three or four inches. He would com-
21*

246 The Culture of the Fig.

mence with very gentle fires if the weather was cold ; but, if
mild, no fires would be required for a week or two. The
temperature at first should be about 45 degrees, to rise the
third or fourth [week ? j to from 55 to 60 degrees, and gradu-
ally to be raised to 65 or 70 degrees fire-heat, and, with sun-
heat, to 75 or 80 degrees, giving plenty of air in fine weather,
and syringing mornings and evenings. During the first six
or seven weeks, water is only to be given in such quantities
as to keep the soil moderately moist; but, as the fruit increases
in size, and the foliage is fully developed, water is to be given
more freely. When the fruit is about half grown, water is
given freely, and liquid manure once or twice a week. The
essayist considered it most important, when the young shoots
have obtained the length of ten or twelve inches, to press the
point between the finger and thumb, Avithout letting the nails
come in contact with the bark, till the soft succulent sub-
stance is felt to yield to the pressure. Such branches will, in
consequence, cease subsequently to elongate, and the sap, be-
ing depressed, is expended where it is more wanted. A fruit
ripens at the base of each leaf; and, during the period of ripen-
ing, one, or more, of the lateral buds shoot, and is subse-
quently subjected to the same treatment, with the same re-
sults. When the shoots are allowed to extend freely to their
natural length, a small part of them only become productive,
either in the same or in the ensuing season. He had made
several experiments to obtain fruit in the following spring
from other parts of such branches without success ; but he
found that, by bending such branches, as far as could be done
without breaking them, they were rendered fruitful; twelve
figs having ripened perfectly in one season upon a branch of
this kind within the space of fourteen inches. In training,
the ends of the shoots to be bent downwards as much as pos-
sible. The fig tree is distinguished from most, if not all other
trees, by the extraordinary property that it bears, and brings
forth, two crops every year, each crop being produced upon a
distinct set of shoots. During the growth of the second crop
of fruit, the tree produces a second shoot, which, when per-
fectly ripened, contains in embryo, through the winter, the
crop for the following spring. As the first crop of fruit ap-
proached maturity, he advised the watering over head to be

The Culture of the Fig. 24.7

discontinued, and an abundance of air to be given. When
the first crop is gathered, watering over head is again resumed,
and continued until the second crop is ripening; it is then dis-
continued. The winter management is merely to keep the
borders moderately dry, and prevent the frost from entering.
He was opposed to the plan of growing figs under vines, as
the fig, being a native of Asia and Barbary, required all the
light we can give it in our climate; and, on this account, it
ought to have a house entirely devoted to it. — He recommend-
ed a few plants to be grown in pots, which could be forced
before the fig-house ; this would considerably prolong the suc-
cession of fruit. The same routine answered admirably. If
bottom heat could be given to the plants in pots, it would ben-
efit them. Mr. Scott would use dung with the soil, as the fig
was a very gross feeder, and required it ; he would also give
the border a good watering of liquid manure at starting, and
would not syringe, as it stopped the pores of the leaves. Mr.
Saul agreed with the essayist in not using any dung along
with the turves: he was of opinion that, if much dung was
used, the shoots would not be properly ripened, and, as a nat-
ural consequence, there would be no fruit; and differed from
Mr. Scott in watering the border, at the commencement, with
liquid manure ; it was not needed until the leaves were fully
developed, which was about the time recommended by the
essayist; he also agreed in syringing, and thought it would
not stop the stomates of the leaves, as apprehended by Mr.
Scott; but would wash off any dust that might settle on the
leaves.— Mr. Mason, Mr. Hood, Mr. Barker, Mr. Watson, Mr.
Daniels, and Mr. Headman, coincided with Mr. Slow and Mr,
Saul on the points raised by Mr. Scott. — Mr, Patterson agreed
with Mr. Scott. — Mr. Hood was opposed to pruning the fig,
Mr. Saul said that, as the leaves required light to perform
their functions, and as the fig-house, if once full of wood,
must, every season after, get more and more crowded, unless
the trees were pruned, if left to go on in this manner; they
would suffer ten times more than they could under any prun-
ing. He would, therefore, prune when the branches, in any
way, encroached upon one another. — Mr. Patterson took Mr.
Hood's view of the matter ; and Messrs. Steadman, Watson,
Mason, Baker, and Daniels, coincided in Mr. Saul's view.

248 Descriptions of Select Vajieties of Apples.

A very interesting discussion took place on these different
points."

We would only add, that, under our bright sun and almost
cloudless sky, the objection made by Mr. Slow is of little con-
sequence here, though, in England, it may be important to
secure all the light and sun possible. But figs may be culti-
vated here with good success in a house with vines, as Mr.
Allen and ourselves have proved.

Art. III. Descriptions and Engravings of Select Varieties
of Apples, By the Editor.

XVI. Walpole.

In our volume for 1846, (XII. p. 475,) under our Pomo-
hgical Notices, we gave a brief account of this new apple.

Mg. 25. Walpole.

Since then, we have had an opportunity to judge more fully
of its qualities, and, as an early fall apple, it is well worthy
of cultivation.

Descriptions of Select Varieties of Apples. 249

The Walpole, {fig- 25,) was first introduced to notice by
Mr. E. M. Richards, of Dedham, whose collection of apples is
very extensive, and through whose exertions other valuable
varieties have been previously brought to notice, — the Benoni
being one of the number. It originated in the town of Wal-
pole, Mass. It is a productive apple, with a handsome red
skin, and comes in at a good season, between the Williams
and Porter.

Size^ large, about three inches broad, and two and a half
inches deep : Form, roundish, little flattened at each end,
tapering slightly towards the eye, and little ribbed : Skin,
fair, smooth, with a yellow ground, nearly or quite covered
with bright red stripes, deepest on the sunny side, the sur-
face dotted with scattered yellowish specks : Stem, short,
about half an inch in length, slender, and rather deeply in-
serted in a large, round, open cavity : Eye, medium size,
closed, and very little depressed in a slightly ridged hollow :
Flesh, yellowish, little tinged with pink, fine and tender:
Juice, abundant, brisk, subacid, and good : Core, rather large,
open: Seeds, large, broad. Ripe the last part of August, and
beginning of September.

XVII. Peck's Pleasant. New American Orchardist.

In Rhode Island, where, it is supposed, this fine apple {Jig-
26,) originated, it has a high reputation, and always com-
mands the highest price in the market. It is of good size,
with a golden yellow skin, and, in flavor, resembles the New-
town pippin, but, unlike that variety, it has a flesh as tender
as the Baldwin. The tree is a productive and regular bearer,
and the fruit keeps well. In Rhode Island, and some parts
of Connecticut, it is considerably disseminated, and it deserves
to be in every good collection in New England.

Size, large, about three inches broad, and two and a half
deep: Form, roundi£.h, regular, flattened at the base, nar-
rowing a little towards the crown: S/dn, fair, smooth, glossy,
pale yellow in the shade, broadly marked with bright
blush in the sun, and covered with numerous prominent gray-
ish russet specks : Stem, short, about half an inch long, rather
stout, knobby, flattened^ and deeply inserted in a somewhat

250 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Apples.

open cavity : Eye, large, open, and moderately depressed in
a very broad, open, somewhat farrowed hollow ; segments of
the calyx very short : Flesh, yellowish, fine, crisp, and ten-

Fig. 26. Peck's Pleasant.

der : Juice, plentiful, pleasantly acid, sprightly, with a rich,
high flavor : Core, medium size, close : Seeds, small. Ripe
from November to March.

XVIII. Beauty of Kent. Hort. Soc. Catalogue, 3d. Ed. 1842.

Among the few English apples which maintain a place —
or deserve to — in American orchards, the Beauty of Kent
holds the very highest rank. In size, scarcely equalled — in
color rich and brilliant — and, though not quite up to the mark
of a first quality fruit, it possesses a tender flesh, a pleasant,
refreshing, subacid juice, and, valued for the table and
kitchen together, it has few equals of its season. We have
seen specimens sixteen inches in circumference.

The Beauty of Kent, {fig. 27,) is a variety which has
been cultivated many years, and Lindley, in his description
of it, states that, though not distinguished by " any pecu-
liar richness of flavor, it certainly must be reckoned a very

Descriptions of Select Variet'es rf Ap2)les. 251

excellent fruit." The tree is a strong and upright grower, and a
good bearer.

Size, very large, about three and ahalfinchesbroad, and three
and a quarter deep : Form, roundish, nearly flat at the base,
tapering to the crown, which is little contracted, and unevenly
formed or ribbed : Skin, fair, smooth, pale greenish yellow,
with large and distinct stripes of pale red and dark crimson,
sometimes slightly russeted at the base: >S'^em, very short, scarce-
ly half an inch in length, slender, and deeply inserted in a

Fig. 27, Beauty of Kent.

slightly angular and deep cavity : Eye, medium size, open,
and sunk in a rather small, much ribbed, and moderately
deep hollow : Flesh, fine, white, little firm, crisp, and tender :
Juice, plentiful, pleasantly acid, brisk, and excellent : Core,
large, open : Seeds, small, roundish. Ripe in September, and
keeps till December.

252 Cannon Hall Muscat Gi^apes.

Art. IV. Memoranda respecting the Cannon Hall Muscat
Grapes. By Alexander Wilson. With Remarks upon the
same. By the Editor.

The Cannon Hall Muscat, is, without doubt, one of the
most magnificent, as well as the most delicious, grapes ever
produced, and to raise it in fine condition is a great desid-
eratum with every cultivator. As yet, it is extremely rare in
American collections, and, as will be seen by the annexed
notice of it, though first produced in England more than
twenty-jive years ago, it is far from being commonly culti-
vated there. Undoubtedly, the cause has been a want of a
knowledge of its management, for, under our own care, we
have found it one of the most difficult varieties to bring for-
ward— that is, with reference to young vines. The cause
has been, — which we only found by experience, that best of
teachers, — that which the writer alludes to, viz., damj)ing off
of the young wood from too early exposure, before it was
mature. When once the vine is fully grown, its treatment is
as simple as other grapes, except as regards the setting of the
fruit. On this point, there seems to be a want of information,
and it is with pleasure that we present the views of an emi-
nent gardener as to the most successful mode of accomplish-
ing this. Every lover of beautiful grapes should read it care-
fully ; for it is equally applicable to the other large kinds of
muscats, such as the Portugal, Tottenham Park, Alexandrian,
Escholata, &c. The article is from the Journal of the London
Horticultural Society, (Vol. HI. Part I.) : —

It is nearly a quarter of a century since the Cannon Hall Muscat Grape
was sent from here to the Horticultural Society, and considering that it is
one of the best and largest grapes grown in this country, is it not rather
strange that so few are found who give it that attention which it deserves ?
It is said to be a bad grower, and that it is difficult to get the fruit to set.
This is partly true ; none of the Muscats set their fruit so freely as some of
the other sorts under ordinary treatment : place them in a situation natural
to them, and they will be found to bear fruit as freely as the Black Ham-
burgh.

In propagating this variety, I take the ripest shoots, and cut the eye or
bud out with as little wood as possible, inserting them in pots of sandy
loam ; they are then plunged in a good bottom heat, and encouraged in their

Cannon Hall Muscat Grapes. 253

growth as much as possible during the early part of the season, so that the
wood may be perfectly ripened by the middle of September. As soon as
the leaves drop, they should be cut back to within two feet of the ground,
when they may be planted, if the border is made in the inside of the house,
taking care that no part of the stem is buried in the soil ; but if the border
is on the outside, they should be grov/n another season in pots, so that the
wood may be two years old before it is exposed to the weather, for I find
that one year old wood is apt to damp off at the surface of the soil.
In making the border, lake care that it is not made too rich. Loam, leaf
mould, and bones laid on a dry bed, are all that is necessary.
■ I have tried to force the Cannon Hall at almost all seasons of the year;
but we have always had the best crops when we did not begin before the
middle of January. They may be forced earlier, but the crop will be small.
Beginning with a very gentle heat at first, keeping the house as moist as
possible, and gradually raising the temperature as the growth of the vines
advances, so as to have the night heat, when the vines are in blossom, at
75°; and during the day 100° is not too much, if they have a little air.
The vines, if healthy, will show three or four bunches on every shoot : cut
them all off but one, and stop the shoots three leaves above the bunch,
nipping off with the finger and thumb any shoots that make their appearance
at the axils of the leaves ; the bunches are large, and at the end formed like
the flower of a cock's-comb, with a stem nearly as thick as the branch from
which they grow, and the flowers are so thickly set on them that they have
not room to expand. With a pair of sharp-pointed scissors we cut off all
the little clusters of flowers in the inside of the bunch, and thin the others
as soon as they separate from one another, which is generally three or four
days before they open, taking care to make them thin enough; in doing
this the bunch should never be touched by the hand, and a little practice
will convince any one it is unnecessary.

As soon as the Grapes are fairly set they should be well thinned out, and
a steady moist atmosphere kept up in the house until they are ripe. They
should never be syringed, as water thrown upon the berries makes tbem
turn black upon the sides and fall off, and this will also be the case with
them if the borders at any time get too wet, more especially during the time
the fruit is stoning.

Last year I selected three good plants of Cannon Hall Muscat, and
plunged them in three different pits in which we grow melons ; one of the
pits was filled with tan, the second with good oak leaves, and the third with
half rotten leaves, which had been previously used in a pine pit. These
pits are heated by two hot-water pipes, which run along the front, and the
air from the outside can be made to pass over them ; the atmosphere in the
pits was kept as nearly as possible the same, but the bottom heat was very
different. The tan soon heated to between 80 and 90 degrees ; the fresh
leaves never got above 80 degrees ; and the rotten leaves had scarcely any
heat in them at all ; they might be said to be neither hot nor cold until the
vine began to grow, and the heat in the pits increased, when a little heat
could be perceived in them about the time the vines were in blossom. AH
VOL. XIV. — NO. VI. 22

254 Extra Early, Boston Five, Hovey^s Seedling, ^'c.

the plants grew vigorously, and one bunch was left on each plant. They
were treated as I have already slated as to thinning and temperature, and I
do not think there was one blossom which did not set, and when they ripened
there was not one bad berry upon one of them. Those which had most
bottom heat ripened the first, but the last were the finest fruit ; if, there-
fore, the border of a vinery can be heated a little, and that heat increased
as the vines advance in their growth, success will be sure. And does not
this account for the eminent success of Mr. Murray, of Polmaise? His
vines are planted in the inside of the house ; and as the temperature of the
house is increased, so must that of the soil, from the air being necessarily
hotter which passes through the drains to the furnace, and on its way giving
out heat to the border. In such a house the Cannon Hall Muscat may be
as easily grown as the Black Hamburgh in ordinary vineries.

Art. V. Bayne's Extra Early, Boston Pine, and Hovey^s
Seedling Strawberry. By Dr. J. H. Bayne, Alexandria, Va.

I have had strawberries from my Extra early variety in
the Washington market just three weeks ago this day. The
Boston Pine and Hovey's Seedhng were both pulled from
under precisely the same circumstances ten days later. For
the first, I obtained $1 60, and %2 per quart, and this was
repeated three successive market days. This variety requires
a south exposure, and a light gravelly soil. It is certainly
the earliest variety I have ever been able to procure, and I
assure you I have spared no pains or expense in endeavoring
to obtain the earliest, as it is quite a desideratum here with
us. Many persons have entirely failed, even in this climate,
with my early. On flat, rich, and adhesive soils, it is not worth
cultivating ; but, on a congenial soil, it is most valuable and
profitable with me. It is a pretty good bearer, and the fruit
attains a medium size. I find it also a good fructifier for the
Hovey's Seedling when planted in its proximity. I think the
plan of mixing the staminate and pistillate plants is entirely
unnecessary, as I can prove by ocular demonstration. It is
only necessary for them to approach each other in the same
patch. I have beds of Hovey's Seedling in profuse bearing,
the remote parts of which are not nearer than 150 feet of any
staminate plant.

The Boston Pine in some situations with me this season

Floricidtural and Botanical Notices. 255

is bearing most abundantly, and, where they have sufficient
room, they are literally covered with trusses of magnificent
fruit. Some plants, I have no hesitation in saying, will yield
a pint of fruit each.

My crop of Hovey's Seedling surpasses any thing I ever
had any conception of. I can now pick from three to four
hundred quarts per day, and my patches are comparatively
small. The demand here is limited, and will not justify a
very extensive cultivation.

I have now been cultivating the strawberry for twenty
years, and have spent some hundreds of dollars in procuring
all the finest varieties as they were announced. I have now
come to the conclusion that some four or five are all that are
necessary for any purpose. I have thrown out at least fifty
varieties which have been extolled in their day. Hovey's
Seedling I consider incomparably superior to any and all oth-
ers I have ever tried, or ever expect to try. It combines
every essential to render it desirable. It is fine in flavor,
magnificent in size, of beautiful color, and extraordinarily
productive. It is the very ne plus idtra of all the varieties of
this delicious fruit. In haste, with great respect, yours, &c.

Alexandria.^ Va., May, 1848.

Some Remarks on Bayne's Extra Early, and other straw-
berries, will be found in another page, written previously to the
above ; it gives us the greatest pleasure to publish a communi-
cation from Dr. Bayne, who has probably given more atten-
tion to this fruit than any amateur cultivator in the country,
and has himself raised several strawberries. His opinion
stands in bold contrast with that expressed by the Committee
of the Cincinnati Horticultural Society. — Ed.

Art. VI. Floricultural and Botanical Notices of New and
Beautiful Plants fj,gured in Foreign Periodicals ; with
Descriptions of those recently inti'oduced to, or originated in,
American Gardens.

Beautifid Calceolarias. — Dear Sir, — I take the liberty of
sending a few blooms of my seedling calceolarias, for your

256 FloricuUiiral and Botanical Notices.

inspection, although they are only part of what I should have
had but for the unexpected loss of several plants. The seed
I received from Mr. Kinghorn, whom I lately lived with, and
was saved from his prize varieties of 1847. These, accord-
ing to the London standard, are a few of the best that have
yet flowered. Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. and 6, I sent to our exhi-
bition last week, and nothing ever shown attracted more ad-
miration. No. 1, was pronounced a perfect gem by all who
saw it ; there were but six blooms expanded, whereas, shortly,
there will be one hundred and more : the plant is in a ^en-inch
pot, and measures fifteen inches over : the flower-stems, nine
in number, are only one foot high, and so robust that no stakes
are required. — Resjjcctfully yours, John Mackic, Gardener io
Wm. Bostwick, Esq., New Haven, Conn., May, 1848.

The flowers came to hand, and in very good order, although
the labels were misplaced ; but the whole of them, taken col-
lectively, were by far the finest we have ever seen. No. 1,
is, indeed, a real gem ; the spotting being distinct, deep, and
rich. Mr. Kinghorn is well known as one of the most suc-
cessful cultivators of the calceolaria around London, and his
flowers have been awarded numerous prizes. We have seen
many plants produced from imported seeds, but none which
have equalled those of Mr. Mackie. Our correspondent may
feel gratified in the possession of such splendid flowers, and, by
care in saving the seed, a superior stock may be generally in-
troduced to our collections.

New Seedling Camellia. — Mr. S. Feast, of Baltimore, has
recently bloomed a very superb seedling camelha. In form,
the flower appears as perfect as the double white, and every
petal is as distinctly and deeply striped as the finest carna-
tion. 'J'he ground color is pale blush, and the stripes are of
a deep red, broad, and showy, giving the flower a striking
appearance. It is a great acquisition.

63. Plumba^go Larpe'ntje Lindl. Lady Larpent's Plum-
bago. (VlnmbagindcecB.) Shanghae.

A greenhouse climber ; growing six feet liigh ; with violet flowers; appearing in autumn ; in-
creased by cuttings ; cultivated in rich loamy soil. Flore des Serres, 1848, pi. 3(J7.

This plumbago is one of the richest of recent acquisitions
to our showy garden plants. It was found by Mr. Fortune,

Floricultuj'al and Botanical Notices. 257

near Shanghae, growing on the ruined ramparts, but the
Horticuhural Society did not succeed in raising it, and its in-
troduction is owing to Sir Geo Larpent, who sent it home
in the ship Monarch, with the accompanying note, dated
May, 1846. "No. 6, Mr. Fortune tried to get a plant of, but
failed ; yours is, therefore, the only one in England. It is
very rare, even at Shanghae, and I found it on the City Wall,
growing out of the stone trap. It will therefore require good
drainage. This is one of the most ornamental plants I have
seen in China. The climate of Shanghae, though in 30° n. lat.,
is very cold and very hot. I have seen the thermometer in
February at 13° and 110° in August. The first specimen
exhibited by Mr. Eyles, Sir Geo. Larpent'sgardener, only had
three flowers ; but, bedded out, in the nursery of Messrs.
Knight and Perry, one plant produced four thousand blooms
in the month of October, The flowers are borne in terminal,
as well as axillary clusters, and so profuse as to cover the
branches. They are of an intense violet, with a little red in the
throat. It is a splendid plant, and will undoubtedly prove
very valuable in our gardens, where our hot autumn sun will
show it in all the beauty of its native clime. Every fine au-
tumnal blooming plant is a desideratum. {Flore des Serres,
Jan.)

64. PiEO^NiA TENUiFO^LiA flore pleuo. Double Fine-leaved Pse-

onia. {Ranunculdceoe.) Garden Hybrid.

The common single Peeonia tenuifolia is a well known and
much admired species in all collections, where its finely divid-
ed foliage contrasts so prettily with the other kinds. The
present subject is a perfectly double variety of that species ;
as large and as fine as the old double red, and of a deeper and
richer tint. It was originated by some of the Belgian or
French gardeners, and deserves a prominent place in every
collection. As we write, a magnificent flov.'er is now open
on a small but healthy plant, in our collection, which we pur-
chased in Paris in the fall of 1844. {Flore des Serres, Jan.)

65. Ch^ne'sthes lanceola^ta Miers Narrow-leaved Chse-

nesthes, (SolandcetB.) South America.

A greenhouse plant ; growing four feet high ; with purplish blue flowers ; appearing in summer.",
increased by cuttings ; cultivated in peat, luam, and sand. Flore des Serres, 1848. pi. 309.

22*

258 Floricultural and Botanical Notices..

66. HoYA ciNNAMOMiFL'LiA Hook. Cinnamoii-leaved Hoya.

{x\sclepiaddcecB.) Java.

A stove plant; growing four feet high; with greenish yellow and pale purple flowers; in-
creased by cuttings ; cultivated in heath soil and leaf mould. Flore des serres, 1S48, pi. 130.

67. Gloxinia Fyfiana. Mr. Fyfe's Gloxinia. {Gesnerid-

ce(B.) Garden Hybrid.

A stove plant ; growing one foot hish ; with white and violet flowers. Flore des gerres, 1848.
pi. 311.

A very beautiful hybrid gloxinia, with large, upright flow-
ers, of a delicate white, and a deep bold colored throat; the
peduncles are very long, and the whole character of the plant
is peculiar and elegant. It was obtained from seed by Mr.
Fyfe, but the varieties which produced so singular a hybrid
are not known. It is of easy cultivation, and is one of the
finest hybrids yet raised. {Flore des Serres, Jan.)

68. Maclea^na corda^ta Hook. Heart-leaved Macleania.

{Yacci?iidce(B.) South America.

a greenhouse plant ; growing three feet high ; with orange-colored flowers ; appearing In spring ;
increased by cuttings ; cultivated in heath soil, leaf mould, and sand. Flore des Serres, 1848,
pi. 313.

69. Sola'ndra lteVis Hook. Smooth Solandra. {Sola?idceoe.)

A greenhouse plant ; growing twofeethigh ; with white flowers ; appearing in spring ; increased
by cuttings ; cultivated in loam, leaf mould, and sand. Flore des Serres, 1848, pi. 313.

Solandrcr grandiflora is a well known ornament of our green-
houses, where its very large, yellowish, trumpet-shaped flow-
ers, ten inches long, are among the showiest of its season.
S. Ise^vis is somewhat similar, but the flowers, though about
as long, are not quite so large and open : they are of a green-
ish white. In habit, it is similar to the S. grandiflora, and its
treatment is the same. {Flore des Serres, Feb.)

70. Ceropje^gia Cuminga^na Decaisne Mr. Cumings's Cero-

paegia. {Asclepiaddceoe.) Java.

a stove climber ; growing six feet high ; with chocolate and white flowers ; appearing in spring ;
increased by cuttings ; grown in heath soil, leaf mould, and sand. Flore des Serres, 1S18, pi. 315.

A most beautiful stove climber.

Reviev)s. 259

REVIEWS.

Art. I. Transactions of the Essex Agricultural Society for
the Year 1847. Pamphlet, 8vo. pp. 134. Danvers, 1847.

The Kssex Agricultural Society is one of the most flourish-
ing in the state : its exhibitions are of the most interesting de-
scription, particularly in the Horticultural Department, and
its annual Transactions contain many interesting reports and
valuable essays, which cannot fail to be of the greatest value
to every intelligent cultivator.

The Transactions for the Year 1847 have been before us
some time, but we have not been able to find room for all
the extracts we had marked. Five Essays, upon the Union,
Apple, Pear, Cranberry, and Oak, occupy a large portion of
it, and, saving that that upon the pear is a mere compilation and
not the result of experience, are of such merit that the Soci-
ety voted a premium of tea dollars each.

The Essay upon the Onion, by J. W. Proctor, Esq , Presi-
dent of the Society, is one of the most complete papers we
have ever read, and, as the Committee on Essays remark, is
an " ideal model" of what such essays should be. We should
be glad, if we had room, to copy all Mr. Proctor's Essay, but
we only have space for three of the subjects into which it is
divided, viz. : —

1. As to the preparation of the land.

Differing from most other crops, the onion grows well, on the same land,
for an indefinite number of years, histances of continued appropriation of
the same pieces of land to the growing of onions, for ten, fiflten, twenty,
and even thirty years, have come to our knowledge. It is the opinion of
many that the crop is better, after the land has been thus used a few years,
than at first. Whether this arises from any influence of the crop upon the
soil, or is the eflfect of continued dressing of manures, we have no means of
determining. This is certain, that the qualities of the soil necessary for the
production of good ciops are not exhausted by continued cultivation.

Rarely, if ever, have we known the onion sowed upon the turf when first
turned over. It is usual to subdue and pulverize the soil, by the cultivation
of corn, or some other crop. Not unfrequently the first year with corn,
the second with carrots, and afterwards with onions. It is important, be-
fore the seed is sown, that the surface be mellow, finely pulverized, and
clear of stones or other impediments, to the free and unobstructed use of the

260 Reviews.

machine for this purpose. The finer and more uniformly mellow the surface
is made, the better. Shallow ploughing, say from four to six inches deep,
is usually practised. Once ploughing only in the spring, and frequent har-
rovvings,are practised. Before the ploughing, the dressing is usually spread
upon the surface of the field, so as to be covered, or intermixed in the fur-
row. The mingling and subdivision of it is effected by the use of the har-
row.

Whether it would not be advantageous occasionally, to stir the land to the
full depth of the soil, is a point on which there is a difference of opinion ;
most of the cultivators inclining to the use of shallow ploughing only.
There aie some facts tending to show, that occasiotjal deep stirring of the
soil does no harm to the onion crop, but, on the contrary, is decidedly bene-
ficial. As, for instance, onions do better where carrots have grown the
year preceding, than after any other crop. The carrot necessarily starts the
soil to the depth often or twelve inches. Possibly there may be some other
influence upon the soil from the plant itself. Our belief is, that the thorough
and deep stirring of it, is the principal preparatory benefit.

2. The manure best adapted to promote the growth.

Any strong manure, well rotted and finely subdivided will answer. But
the general impression seems to be, that manure from stables, where the
horses are freelv fed with grain, is the best ; and that it should be at least
one year old, because it will not be sufficiently rotten in a less time. All
agree that the dressing for the land should be kept near the surface, well
mixed, and as fine as possible. Though we have seen, the present year, a
very superior growth of onions, where green manure from the barn-yard
was applied in the spring ; but particular pains were taken to subdivide and
intermingle it with the soil ; and to bush-harrow the land so thoroughly,
that very little of the manure was exposed upon the surface.

Muscle-bed is frequently used upon onion land. A portion of this is
deemed by s^me almost indispensable. We have known the continued use
for half a dozen years in succession, even without other manures, with a
continuation of fair crops; but the general impression is, that it will not do
to repeat the application of muscle-bed many years in succession. The ef-
fect being to harden the land, and make too much of a crust about the sur-
face. Without question, the effect of the muscle-bed is congenial to the
growth of the onion, giving those who live in the vicinity of rivers where it
is found a special advantage over those who are remote from it.

Leached ashes are also a valuable manure in ihe cultivation of the onion ;
more so when leached than before. All kinds of ashes are advantageously
applied on onion land.

Corn/iost manure made of meadow mud and droppings from the cattle, we
have known advantageously applied on onion fields; but we have many
doubts as to this being the best application of this kind of manure. A
more lively and quickly operating manure is better for the onion ; one that
will give them an early start, and advance them as fast as possible, in the
first part of the season. The utmost vigilance and activity is used by our
cultivators in getting their land ready, at an early period of the season, for

Reviews. 261

the reception of the seed. It is the first field labor of the spring. The use
of compost manure will depend much upon the constituents of the soil with
which it is mixed. If the soil be a sandy loam, with a porous subsoil, the
compost will do tolerably well ; but if it he a black soil, with a clayey sub-
soil, such as are most of the lands where onions are raised in this vicinity,
stable manure, or muscle-bed, or leached ashes, or a mixture of these, will
be a better application. The quantity ordinarily applied annually, is from
four to five cords to the acre. Whatever is applied, should be generously
applied. It will be vain to expect full crops of onions without full manur-
ing, When the manure is collected, it is benefited much by a free appli-
cation of elbow grease in its preparation. The cultivator of the onion must
work early and late, and in good earnest. Nothing short of forcible and
persevering labor will answer. No man who is afraid of soiling his hands
or the knees of his Irowsers will do to engage in this business. Close work
at the proper time, is the only sure guarantee of a good crop. — pp. 86-88.

Premising that the usual routine is gone through, the last
part is : —

6. The time and manner of harvesting.

When the tops begin to wither and fall, then it is usual to start the
onions from their bed and throw them together in rows, say eight or ten
growing rows into one. After they have lain thus about one week, they
are stirred and turned with a rake, and, in about one week more, when the
ground is dry, and the weather fair, they are gathered up by cart loads
and taken to the barn. Here they are sorted and cleared of refuse leaves,
and then they are in a condition to be hunched or barreled.

It should be remarked, that a large part of the labor of weeding, gath-
ering, and sorting, the onion, can be performed by children from ten to six-
teen years of age. Boys of this age, when properly instructed, will do
about as much as men. They are more nimble, and can come at the woi'k
with greater facility. The sorting of the onion is frequently done by girls
as well as by boys. From three to five dollars a week, at one cent a basket,
are usually earned by them during the period of harvesting — which in-
cludes the months of September and October. After the crop is taken oflT,
if the surface is sloping, it is useful to plough furrows about one rod
apart, to keep the surface from washing. Unless this is done, all the
herbage being gone, much of the soil will be likely to be misplaced, by
the melting of snows and running of water in the spring.

The inquiry arises, whether the growth of the onion is limited to soils
of particular character, or whether it can be cultivated upon any good soil,
with proper attention. We know that there is a popular impression, that
there are but few places in which the onion can be cultivated advantage-
ously. So far as our own observation has extended, this impression is in a
great measure erroneous. Like every other plant, the onion grows best on
very good soils, in very good condition. But we have known very fair
crops, on plain, light land, after the same was well saturaiei. w.tli manure,

262 Previews.

musde-hed. or ashes. A good substratum must be laid before a good crop
can be expected ; and this being done, a crop may be expected on almost
any soil that will support other vegetables.

If we were asked, what course is best to be pursued with land on
which onions have never been raised, to bring it into a condition for suc-
cessful cultivation of the crop ; we should say, begin by ploughing to the
full depth of the nutritive soil, and during the first and second years,
thoroughly subdue and mellow the soil by the cultivation of crops of corn
and carrots, with liberal dressings of manure ; then thoroughly incorporate
with the soil a dressing of strong manure, and muscle-bed, just covering
this dressing ; then harrow the surface thoroughly, and clear it of all roots,
weeds, or other obstructions ; then apply a coating of lively, well rotted
manure to the surface and bush-harrow it ; and then it will be in a condi-
tion to receive the seed, which is to be inserted as soon as the opening
of the spring will admit of its being done.

We are aware that we make the raising of the onion dependent upon
severe labor and vigilant attention. We know that it cannot be success-
fully done without these. But it is not labor lost. No cultivation, within
our observation, better repays for the labor and incidental expenses. We
have known, the present season, acres that have yielded their owners a net
income of more than tioo hundred dollars; and we know that a man, with
two boys, can well attend to half a dozen acres of such cultivation. Surely,
when, as at present, there is no limit to the demand for the article, and a
ready cash market, those who have acres, and are willing to labor, need
not be in want of a fair compensation for their labor.

As samples of the present year's produce in the town of Danvers, we
state the following that have come under our notice : —

Names.

Acres.

Produce.

John Peaslee,

1980 bushels.

Daniel Osborn & Son,

1 1-5

870

James P. King,

6G0

Aaron C. Proctor,

600 "

E. & D. Buxton,

6-1

2750

Henry Bushby,

2000 "

Joseph Bushby,

1500 "

Yielding an average of more than 500 bushels to the acre.

In the Essay on the Pear, the writer states what others
have done without giving but few ideas of his own. Tn his
directions for growing pears from seed, we have the follow-
ing advice : —

The seed bed for pears should be in a rich soil, which should be trenched
to the depth of fourteen to eighteen inches, and the subsoil well mixed
with rich compost. The seed should be sown in the autumn, in wide
drills from two to three feet apart, to allow the passage of the cultivator

Reviews. 263

between them. The next summer, the young trees should be thinned out,
so that they shall not stand nearer than two to three inches to each other.

Contrast this theory with ihe practical advice of Mr. Proc-
tor, who states that no man "who is afraid of 50 i/m^ /us
hands, or the knees of his trowsers^'' should engage in the
business of raising onions. We would apply the same advice
to those who would raise pear stocks; and we should much
sooner expect to get a good crop of onions by sowing them so
as to run a cultivator (!) between the rows, than a good crop
of pear seedlings : such advice only leads to disappointment
and the loss of the crop. If there is any plant which needs
thorough tillage, it is the pear in its seedling state. The
spade, the hoe, the rake, and the fingers, are the only imple-
ments to be made use of.

In the choice of stocks for the pear, the writer repeats the
old story that " the quince is short-lived, not usually bearing
more than ten or twelve years." Experience would not have
authorized any such statement, as it is well known that the
quince will grow and bear abundantly for half a century or
more: a row of trees in the garden of the London Horticul-
tural Society, which we saw in full bearing in 1844, had been
planted twenty-five years.

Every year, the same story goes the rounds of the papers,
set in motion by those who know nothing about the subject
from personal knowledge. Essays of this kind should seek
to dispel prejudice and error rather than disseminate it.

Mr. Ives's Essay on the Apple details the entire manage-
ment of the trees in a plain and practical manner. Sowing
the Seed — Budding — Preparation of the Land — Planting — and
the General Routine of Orchard Culture — are given under dis-
tinct heads : but we have only room for the concluding re-
marks : —

Keeping Apples. — As regards the best method of keeping winter apples,
opinions are various. In P^urope, they usually spread their fruit after gath-
ering it, on a floor to sweat, previous to their final packing, which is then
placed in sand, sawdust, chaff, charcoal dust, or peat earth. In this coun-
try, we find the practice of our most experienced growers is to gather the
fruit by hand, and immediately place them in tight flour barrels, shaking
them gently while packing, and then head them up light ; they are then
placed in a cool, shady exposure, under a shed exposed to the air, there to

264 Reviews.

remain until it becomes cold, freezing weather, when they are transferred
to a cool and dry cellar, placing the barrels on their sides, and keeping the
cellar dark.

As a source of income, we believe that the apple can now be relied upon
either for our own markets, or for exportation ; the facilities of communica-
tion by steamboats and railroads opening new markets for this wholesome
fruit, while the prices obtained for the finest sorts have not diminished but
advanced, should incite our farmers to plant out orchards of the apple. Mr.
Pell, of Esopus, on the Hudson river, who has an orchard of two thousand,
bearing Newtown Pippen apples, gathered from the trees, in one season,
seventeen hundred barrels of fruit, part of which were sold in New York
for four, and others in London for nine, dollars per barrel.

In making a selection of apples, we should, as far as is practicable, en-
deavor to fix upon those which are found to suit our soil ; we have hereto-
fore remarked that many kinds which are good bearers when grown in
strong and moist soils, — for example, the Pickman Pippen, Williams's Fa-
vorite, Blue Pearmain, Roxbury Russet, and Ribstone Pippen, — are the re-
verse of this upon our own soil, which is of a light, sandy loam ; while
the Baldwin, llubbardston Nonsuch, Yellow Bell-flower, Danvers Winter
Sweet, Minister, and Fall Harvey, grow and bear well upon our grounds.
The Baldwin and Hubbardston Nonsuch seem to be at home in almost every
variety of soils.

In a Report which was made to this society some years since, we re-
marked that apples, originating on any given soil, will be generally better
than most of those which are introduced into it ; citing the Newtown Pip-
pen, and Pennock's Red Winter, which are first rate at the south where
they originated, but, when fruited in this locality, are found inferior to the
Hubbardston Nonsuch, Baldwin, and some others. A close observer at
the West, (Rev. Mr. Beecher,) has recently observed " that the soil and
climate so modify the flavor and other qualities of the apple, that there
is reason for believing that an apple originating on any given soil will
be better than many which are introduced into it, for, though the apple
is raised in almost every soil, yet it is probable that each variety affects
a particular one ; thus I perceive the most popular apples of New Eng-
land are natives; this, to a considerable extent, is true of the West."

Among the best varieties of apples in Massachusetts are the "Minis-
ter," and the " Mother;" they are of recent origin, the first-named was
raised in Rowley, and is a winter fruit, combining great beauly, produc-
tiveness, large size, fine flavor, and late keeping properties. The other is
a late fall apple of highest order ; it originated in Bolton, and is a large
oblong red fruit of excellent flavor, and a good bearer. No better evi-
dence can be given of the congeniality of the soil of our state for the
apple than the natural production of such fruit as the Baldwin, Minister,
Hubbardston Nonsuch, Mother, Roxbuiy Russet, Danvers Winter Sweet,
Aunt Hannah, and the Ben of Reading. — pp. 124-126.

General Notices. 265

xMISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. General Notices.

CuUivalion of Grape Vines. — Complaints are frequently made of the
loss, or partial loss, of a crop of grapes when there could be no apparent
cause. Often the vines which appear strong push weakly, and show only
one bunch of fruit, and that of small size. IJeep planting and a deep bor-
der are too often the cause of all the bad effects experienced, and a corre-
spondent of the Gardeners^ Journal, having failed to procure a good crop,
requested information, to which the following is a reply : as it is the best of
advice, we copy it here. — Ed.

As 'J. VV. R.' (p. 117.) wishes for advice from some of your corre-
spondents concerning the failure of his vines, I venture a few remarks.
As he has not said any thing about the border, I am led to conjecture that
the roots must be lying too deep, and out of the influence of the sun — this
being the primary cause of all the ills the vine is heir to. My advice is to
get some vine eyes put in immediately, which he can get from those that
have been grown out of doors against wallsj as those in-doors are breaking.
Then, if the vines should fail this year, lose no time in cutting them down ;
train one rod to each rafter, which will allow ample room to grow the vines
in pots to fill the house next year, independent of the others. If they
should require to be cut down, he had better examine his border, and see
what state the roots are in ; and, if they are deep, I would at once remove
the old soil, at least two feet deep, and get in some good turfy loam, rather
light than otherwise, and make it up again : if some of the smaller roots
can be brought up, so much the belter. See that there is a good drain,
sufficiently deep to carry off all superfluous water, as every other efl^ect
would be useless (particularly if the border is on a level with the original
surface,) if that be not well attended to. If the stems are outside of the
house, and there is room to raise the border at least a foot, there will be no
need to take more than a foot of the old soil away, as that would allow of
two feet of fresh. If ' J. W. R.' thinks proper to try this plan, I do not
think he will have cause to regret ; as I have been so situated myself, and
I can testify to the good effects produced by so treating them. I have a
small vinery, 36 feet long by 10 feet wide, which served me in the way
complained of — two years producing nothing but blind bunches. I grew
eighteen vines in pots, on Mr. Wright's system, and some of them showed
as many as thirty bunches. I intend to take this year two hundred bunches,
ten bunches from each of the rafters, and six from each pot, the plants in
which are trained between the rafters ; they are now beginning to come
into flower, and promise well. There is a pit in the house which I have
made into a border, where the pots are plunged three or four inches, which
will materially assist them in swelling off" their fruit. I find any sort of
grape will do for pots. I have four sorts, and all are equally fruitful. By
this system I may say I am taking two crops of grapes without distressing

VOL. XIV. — NO. VI. 23

266 General Notices.

the vines ; some of the bunches from the border vines bid fair for 21bs.
weight each."— (Garrf. Juurn., 1848, p. 213.)

Wash fur Peach Trees. — Seeing, in your excellent journal, a receipt for
awash lor peach trees, by Mr. Tillery, I beg to say I have tried many
mixtures, some of them similar to Mr. Tillery's, but 1 found none of them
so effectual as the following simple application — which has never failed,
either as applied by myself, or by many others: — If the trees are subject
to curl or mildew, I syringe with water as soon as the fruit are set, and
then dust them over with road dust, taking care to apply it to the under-
side of the leaves as much as possible. It is allowed to remain until washed
off by rain. Two of these dressings are generally sufficient for the season.
The trees may probably look unsightly after the application, but they will
thrive and grow luxuriantly, which will amply repay for their appearance.
I am convinced, by actual practice, that, when applied to thorn-quicks
attacked by mildew, it proves an effectual remedy, and will be a great boon
to nurserymen if once they resort to the use of it. A few years ago, I had
charge of a garden in the immediate vicinity of Dublin, in rather a confined
situation ; and was dreadfully annoyed with caterpillars and green-fly upon
the gooseberry bushes. I had tried almost every nostrum I could think of
unsuccessfully, and then resorted to the above remedy, and succeeded in
destroying, by two dressings, both pests. In this case, if the trees are care-
fully watched, and the lower extremities of the bush — where the young
brood of caterpillars first make their appearance — well dressed, it will pre-
serve the upper part of the tree clean. Some gardeners have been so ex-
asperated with them as to completely plaster the trees all over. A few
remarks of mine on the same subject were printed in the Dublin Gardener's
Mutual Instruction Society's Transactions some years ago, and many of its
members have proved the value of the application; though, I can assure
you that some gardeners would not listen to what they were pleased to
call "such nonsense," until, by some means or other, it wrought upon
their iron bigotry, and satisfied them of their folly. I think Mr. Hodgins,
of the Kingstown Nursery, Dublin, could testify to its usefulness. — {lb.
p. 213.)

Double Flowering Stocks. — There are few plants more generally culti-
vated than the double stock gilliflower. Time out of mind, the Old Bromp-
ton, or Queen, has been the pride of the cottager's garden ; whilst the ten-
week, with its varieties of German and Prussian, combining every hue from
pure white to deep crimson, now lend their effectual aid in the decoration,
combining variety and fragrance in an extraordinary degree. Raising
double flowers has always been considered a matter of chance ; but should
the following hint by M. Louis Mullott, of Elbceuf, be acted upon, and
found correct, (and we have no occasion to doubt it,) it will confer a boon
on the small cultivator, who has neither the inclination nor the space to
grow single flowers. We give the following translation of this discovery
from La Revue Horticole, a French work. M. Mullott commences by ob-
serving that, for a long period, there has been great diversity of opinion as
to the best method of procuring double stock gilliflowers, and that, formerly,

General Notices. 267

various preparatory means were pointed out, more or less absurd, from
which no satisfactory results either were, or could be, obtained. This, th >n,
he says, " is a very easy way, not of making the stocks bear double flow-
ers, but to know those seeds which would be most likely to produce p'ants
accomplishing so desirable a result; thus having the opportunity of sow-
ing only those seeds which have this tendency. Having tried this plan, I
communicate it vvith the greatest confidence, not only with the persuasion
that it is a new idea to many florists, but that it will be found useful."
The selection of these seeds consists in choosing only those pods which are
attached to the flower-stem at the same height, that is to say, opposite each
other, or in whorls of three or four. The seeds which these opposing
pods contain will produce plants bearing double flowers, whilst those placed
alternately on the flower-stem, one above the other, in the natural way,
generally contain those which will bring single flowers. He concludes by
inviting those who grow stocks to make the experiment, so that they may
be convinced of its correctness, and to publish the results of their observa-
tions- Many of our readers will, no doubt, exclaim, " Well, this is singu-
lar enough !'' If it cause them to think — to ask " Why?" our point will,
in some measure, be gained. But we shall be much happier to have the
" Because," from some of them. But, at all events, we will give our
answer ; having asked " Why is it soT' We think it arises from an accu-
mulation of sap at that particular part of the flower stem. If vegetable or
floral monstrosities (and all double flowers whose stamens are turned into pet-
als are monstrous) arise from an excess of sap, then it appears from the seed-
puds being produced on the flower-stem in greater number than usual, and
out of the common way, that the functions of the plant have been, in some
way, perverted, and this excess of nutriment may be imparted to the em-
bryo seed, and there preserved till brought into action when sown ; its re-
sult being a double flower. Now we do not mean to say that our theory
is right; but we are always glad to receive instruction and information,
and thus, in some measure, get repaid for what we occasionally advance.
Perhaps some of our readers conversant with the matter will give us some-
thing shoit, plain, and instructive, on the laws which govern the produc-
tion of double flowers. — {lb., p. 151.)

Hardy Species of the Pinus Tribe in Scotland. — Just now, while there is
an increasing interest taken in the introduction of the finer species of pines,
we copy the following account of the Pinetum at Ballindalloch Castle, in
Scotland, being the substance of a communication read before the High-
land Agricultural Society. As the climate of Scotland is more severe than
that of England, and as the species which prove hardy there will be likely
to prove so in our own climate, cultivators will be able to form some opin-
ion of the relative hardiness of the different species which are enumerated,
and, in planting, select only those which have been successfully raised in
Scotland. — Ed.

"Earl of Roseberry in the chair. Among other interesting matters
brought before the meeting, was an account of the pinetum at Ballindal-
loch Castle, communicated by Sir J. Macpherson Grant, and accompanied

268 General Notices.

by a tabular statement of the age, grovvlh, and condition of the different
species. This report was introduced to the meeting by Professor Balfour,
who, before reading it, made some observations on the structure of Conif-
erae, as regards their woody tissue, leaves, cones, and male catkins, fer-
tilization, and germination ; and illustrated his remarks by a series of mag-
nified drawings by the microscope, as well as by specimens of living plants
and cones. There are only three British species of cone-bearing plants —
the common Scotch fir, yew, and juniper ; all the rest now in cultivation in
the open air have been introduced from difl'erent countries of Europe, from
Mexico and other parts of North America, from Chili, the Himalayas,
Japan, China, &c. The fact was mentioned of some species producing
cones, but no perfect seeds. It would appear that trees, when young, some-
times bear cones without producing male catkins ; the formation of pollen
seeming to require that the trees should be in a fully developed state.
These remarks were illustrated by specimens of the cones of Abies Doug-
lasii, in which all the ovules were abortive, the tree not having borne male
flowers. The divisions of the natural order were then noticed, and End-
licher's work on the Coniferas was recommended. Attention was chiefly
directed to the section Abietinse, including genera in which the scales were
two-seeded, and those in which the scales were one-seeded. Under the
former subdivision are found — Pinus, with leaves in twos, threes, fours,
and fives, and a thickened apex of scales; Abies, leaves solitary, [i. e.,
coming off singly,) flat, no thickened apex of scales, which are deciduous,
(i. e., fall off clearly ;) Picea, leaves solitary, four-cornered, no thickened
apex of scales, which are persistent, (i. e., remain long attached;) Larix
(Larch) and Cedrus (Cedar,) scales without thickened apex, clustered
leaves, which, in the former, are annual, in the latter permanent. The
Professor stated that Ballindalloch Castle stands about 470 feet above the
level of the sea, in a sheltered situation, favorable for the growth of all
kinds of trees. The pinetum was commenced in 1831. The soil — a loam,
one to three feet deep, incumbent on gravel — was trenched, levelled, and
planted with common Scotch fir, as nurses for the rarer trees which have
since been, from time to time, added to the collection. The cultivation of
these having been attended with varied results. Sir John had communicated
to the Society the report before the meeting, with the view of adding to
the information at present possessed with regard to the kinds of foreign
Coniferaj most suitable for the climate of this country. The Professor
called the attention of the meeting more particularly to the statements in
the report in reference to the following trees : — Pinus excelsa, planted in
1836, several of which were making rapid progress, dead, cause unknown ;
Uncinati, 1836, hardy, handsome, eleven feet high; Pyrenaica, 1836,
twelve feet high, hardy, and handsome ; Banksiana, 1830, seven and a half
feet high, stunted, unsatisfactory, but quite hardy ; Inops, 1832, six feet,
quite unsuited to climate; Ualepensis and Pinea, both repeatedly tried,
always destroyed by frost ; Cembra, 1832, sixteen feet, handsome, suc-
ceeds on the hills wherever tried ; Ponderosa, 1832, thirteen feet, uninjured
by frost, but subject to the attack of a beetle which enters the young shoot

General Notices. 269

and eats the pith ; Serotina, seven and a half feet, sickly and unprnmising ;
Abies Douglasii, 1832, sixteen and a half feet, most vigorous and hand-
some tree, has this year produced cones; Morinda, 1832, has failed ; Can-
adensis, 1832, five feet, mere shrubs, unadapted to climate ; Menziesii,
1836, eight feet, hardy and ornamental ; Picea cephalonica, three feet,
numerous specimens, produce of seed from Cephalonia, uninjured by frost;
Pinsapo, 1840, two feet, apparently hardy and growing well ; Pichta, 1836,
seven feet, handsome and healthy ; Webbiana, 1836, dead from cold ; Cedrus
Deodara, 1839, three feet, has been slightly protected in winter ; Libani, many
specimens promising well, but not above five feet high. — Professor Balfour
stated, as the results of Mr. Macnab's experience, that Pinus Pinea seems
to be quite hardy, but does not attain the size of a timber tree in b'cotland.
P. halipensis is too tender for this climate. P. Sabiniana appears to be
quite hardy. P. excelsa has suffered in several places from cold, but
thrives well in the Botanic Garden. Abies Morinda is perfectly hardy.
A. canadensis does not grow to the size of a tree here. Picea Webbiana
always injured by late spring frosts. Cedrus Deodara quite hardy. Pro-
fessor Balfour concluded by stating that a communication on the same sub-
ject had been received from Mr. Humphrey Graham. His pinetum, how-
ever, was not so far advanced as that at Ballindalloch ; and as he under-
stood that that gentleman intended afterwards to make a more detailed
statement on the subject, he would not occupy the time of the meeting fur-
ther than by stating that, between March, 1846, and March, 1847, Mr.
Graham had himself sown, and given to others to sow, no less than about
12,000 Himalayan seeds. Many of these were received from Col. Morri-
son, H. E. I. C. S., by whom above 40,000 seeds were imported from In-
dia, and distributed in 1846. — Mr. Lawson was happy to see that the atten-
tion of the society was directed to the growth of coniferous trees, as none
were more suited to the climate of this country, whether as regards shelter
or timber. He trusted that other gentlemen would follow the example set
by the Colonel Morrison and Mr. Graham in the introduction of seeds from
foreign countries ; and, with that object in view, he would direct the atten-
tion of the members to the quarters whence many of the Conifers have been,
and still might be, introduced, such as the Caucasus, from which we have
the Picea Nordmanniana, Siberia, and the Himalaya Mountains, where the
Cedrus Deodara, Pinus excelsa, and Abies Morinda, are found. In Ne-
paul, the Abies Brunoniana could be procured ; he considered it to be a
great acquisition, and well adapted to the climate of this country. Several
rare and valuable Conifera; have been obtained from California, such as the
Abies Douglassii and A. Menziesii, &c. That quarter, together with the
northern part of Texas, and, indeed, northwest America generally, were
well worth stricter investigation than had hitherto been bestowed upon
them. There was every reason to believe that very valuable Coniferse
might be obtained from the northern provinces of China and the empire of
Japan. One of the latest introductions — the Cryptomeria japonica — was a
useful tree, and promised to be suitable to this country. The mountain-
ous districts of Chili, whence had been obtained the Araucaria imbricata,

23*

270 General Notices.

probably contained pines which might be useful in this country. Mr.
James M'Nab informed the meeting that the cones of the Abies Doug-
lasii, without seeds, referred to by Professor Balfour, were taken from
the pinetum of Mr. Speiis, of Calcreuch, the tree measuring forty-two
feet in height by five feet four inches in circumference at the base. —
Professor Low, in answer to a question from the chairman, regarding
the quality of the wood of the Cedrus Deodara, stated that it was high-
ly valued for its durability by the natives of the East."' — {Card. Jonrn.,
1848, p. 151.)

Culture of Primula Sinensis. — This interesting little plant was intro-
duced in 1820, and, from its gay appearance in the winter and spring, is
well deserving of notice. The seed, which is produced abundantly, should
be sown, as soon as it is ripe, in pans, filled with equal parts of sandy soil,
and leaf mould, and sparingly watered till they germinate. A fler they have
formed two or three rough leaves, transplant them into small pots in equal
parts of good loam, rough sandy peat, and rotten dung, with some fine
charcoal. Let them be repotted as often as they require it, till ihey show
signs of flower, when, instead of repotting them in the common flower-pot,
have some small rustic baskets made as follows : — Take a piece of board of
any description, one inch thick, and cut it into any shape or form that fancy
may suggest (ours are round, square, and oval ;) then nail some pieces of
fir or other rough branches of any tree, split by the saw, up the sides,
{or rather tofon)i the sides,) and one round the top to form the rim, to which
the uprights are fastened, as well as at bottom ; when finished, put some
pieces of charcoal and rough peaty turf in the bottom; on this place the
roots of the plant, and fill up with the same soil as in pot culture. When
this is done, fasten a piece of wire, by both ends, to the sides, so as to form
a handle ; then suspend them along the front of the greenhouse. The effect
is charming, particularly when there is a mixture in the same basket. I
also adopt the same plan with all my achimenes, mixing the species to-
gether in the same basket, and using the same kind of soil. By this mode
of culture, they may be grown finer than in common pots, however well
drained they are, or whatever description of soil is employed. When the
primulas have done flowering, place them in any convenient shady place,
or they may be planted out in the flower-garden beds ; but their flowers will
not be so large or brilliant, nor will they answer the purpose of flowering in
the autumn and spring months in the greenhouse, when they are most re-
quired, particularly in places where pot plants are required in the dwel-
ling-house. If plants of this description are required for planting out in
the flower-garden beds, or in rustic or other boxes, January is a good
time to sow the seeds, which should be frequently potted, and encour-
aged as much as possible, so that they may be pretty strong before plant-
ing out. For rock or root work, the plant is well adapted, and forms a
pleasing contrast with other plants for that purpose. The primrose is
easily propagated from cuttings, but seeds are to be preferred. — {Card.
Journ., 1848, p. 229.)

General Notices. 271

Cannon Hall Muscat Grapes. — I see, by your notices to correspond-
ents, that a valuable secret resi)ectiiig- the setting of the Cannon-hall
Muscat grapes is in the possession of somebodv in Herts, and that you
have, as yet, been unable to publish it. These Hertfordshire folks must be
the deuce for secrets, and, what is st 11 more perplexing, they seem de-
termined t.i keep them. As I have a way that is quite successful in
fertil zing the Cannon-hall Muscat, Black Damascus, Stillward's Sweet
Water, and other shy setters, it may answer the purpose of your " Origi-
nal Subscriber" till the grand secret is made public. On the first ap-
pearance of the blossoms opening, I draw my hand across the bunches
two or three times a day, beginning when the sun has some power in
the house ; or, if the day is dull, at the dryest part of it. I make my hand
quite clean and dry before operating, and repeat the process eveiy day till
I see the berries set. I had no difficulty in making Muscat grapes set as
thick as the white Frontignan in the beginning of this month by doing as
above ; and was equally successful last year in the dullest weather. When
only a few bunches of Cannon hall Muscats, or Black Damascus, are to be
operated upon, and there is time to do it, it is a good plan to thin out the
side flowers in the middle of the bunches and shoulders before they come
into bloom ; it makes what are left stronger, and they can be fertilized with
a camel'shair brush, or drawing a bunch of some free-setting variety across
them. — (Gard. Journ., 1848, p. 181.)

Plants for Bedding out on Lawns. — " A. H." b'^gs for information re-
specting shrubby exotics proper for the open air in the summer months, and
my first intention was to furnish a list of those which are generally found in
first-rale gardens, giving the color, habits, and size of each. But on after-
reflection, I have thought it best to confine my observations strictly to the
results of my own experience, as more appropriate to the large class for
whose benefit these papers are written. If, as the hand-writing of "A. H."
intimates, the applicant is a lady, I am sure I shall best consult her wishes
by being explicit, and recommending a course of summer gardening easily
managed. Many exotics will do well only in very warm seasons ; others
require much attention to produce efiect ; but there are many which yield a
beautiful display with moderate care. Persons with professional gardeners
at hand do not need the advice requested by " A. H.," and the very nature
of the application appears to indicate the kind of reply which will be most
acceptable.

Let me premise that the beds intended for effect in summer should be un-
occupied by herbaceous plants or other productions which do not naturally
decay at the close of spring, as the old-fashioned flowers of our gardens do
not harmonize well with greenhouse plants ; and besides this, each bed
should be devoted to one kind of flower. Some borders should be devoted
to miscellaneous plants and shrubs, but a summer garden should be free at
the proper time of bedding out exotics. My own plan is to fill beds on the
lawa with bulbs in autumn, and these being past their beauty in May, the
plants intended for summer are put in, and, by the time they are ready to
flower, the bulbs can be removed ; or, their foliage having withered, they

272 General Notices.

may be raked over and allowed to remain till another season. By confining
each bed to one kind of plant, a better effect is produced, and it is more easy
to attend to the cultivation. However, the circumstances of gardens are
very various, and, if your beds are partly occupied wilii fixtures, you must
exercise your taste, and introduce exotics here and there, so as to harmonize
best with the whole, and produce the best effect.

In my opinion, at the head of the class of plants now under consideration,
stands the Scarlet geranium, or, more properly, pelargonium. Nothing
can exceed ihe beauty of this in the open air, and nothing yields its flowers
more abundantly, or demands less attention. There are many varieties now
grown, thirteen being named in a list advertised in the Chronicle of the 22d
inst. These differ in height, intensity of color, and character of foliage.
By placing a strong plant, of a robust, tall habit, in the centre of a small
bed, surrounding it with a number of less stately growth, and forming the
border of those of a dwarf development, a pyramidal bed is produced, the
lustre and charming beauty of which are unsurpassed. Single plants may
be introduced in vacant spaces, either trained upright to a stake, or, if of a
dwarf kind, made to form a mass on the ground.

Next in durability and abundance of bloom, come the shrubby, yellow
calceolarias, contrasting so vividly with the scarlet pelargoniums. These
grow rapidly, and should be planted about one foot apart every way, so as
to cover the bed. The herbaceous kinds look well, but are more delicate
than the shrubby varieties. The large flowers of the superior seedlings,
now grown, are only fit for days continuously warm and still ; wind and
rain soon rob them of their beauty. Fuchsias deserve commendation on
every account. They are graceful in their mode of growth, profuse bloom-
ers, and continue gay till the frosts of autumn set in. These are so various
in their heights, and in their colors, that they admit of the most charming
combinations. Fuchsias have also the recommendation of living through
the winter in open ground, if properly protected. From a bed occupied
with hyacinths and tulips, fuchsias may protrude without interfering with
them.

The variegated pelargoniums look magnificent in a bed, if varieties are
selected for the purpose. They should be carefully trained in pots, and
stopped from flowering, until a good compact head is secured ; they will
then bloom beautifully in a warm summer. Cinerarias admit of tasteful
arrangement, and make handsome beds. I presume it is not necessary to
say any thing of verbenas and petunias, as they are found everywhere.
Small round or oval beds, surrounded with an ornamental edging of hasket-
work, either of wood or wire, are attractive objects when overflowing with
verbenas or petunias. Phloxes, antirrhinums, mesembryanthemums, &c.,
form beds of various and durable beauty. The Phk)x Drummondi is a great
favorite with me, and it continues in bloom as late as any thing of a tender
kind in the open air. I have mentioned the above because I know how
easily and successfully they may be cultivated, what beauty they are capa-
ble of producing, and what satisfaction the amateur will derive from a gar-
den supplied with them. They may be all cheaply purchased. — {Gard.
Chron., 1848, pp. 284-285.)

General Notices. 273

Treat r.ent of Plants in Pots. — Most persons who patronize horticulture
have plants in pots, which, having escaped all the mischances of winter,
are now beginning to put on their new foliage, and to prepare for the de-
velopment of bloom. Even ihe meanest cottages have often floral pots,
which, after being covered with dust in the dreary season, are now exposed
on rainy days as the spring advances. The experienced amateur has been
training his exotics for months past, whether he has a greenhouse, or is con-
tented with a frame and a parlor window, and they are now in good order,
and making rapidly their new growth. But there are many devoted lovers
of flowers who are not experienced amateurs, and their little stock of plants
in pots now engages their attention for the first time. What had we better
do with them? is now asked, as Pelargoniums, Fuchsias, &c., are brought
out on a sunny day. 1 his question we shall endeavor to answer, so that
the least practical hand may not be misled.

Repotting is demanded by at least two important principles in the econ-
omy of vegetation — the dependence of the plant on the state of the lOOt,
and the quality of the soil. Turn out one of your last year's Pelargoniums,
and you will find the pot so full of roots that you will wonder what has
become of the bulk of mould they have displaced. These roots have evi-
dently been seeking after more house-room, for they have wandered round
and round the pot in curious spiral forms, until at last no place remains
for their lively wanderings, and they grow wearied with the search, re-
main motionless, and stiffen in their texture. In this state, no healiby
growth of the plant can take place, and the first thing to be done is to
cut away large portions of the old roots, leaving only those which are
youngest, in greater or less quantities, according to the size of the head
they are to sustain. When this is carefully done, and the plant has been
in its new circumstances for a few days, fresh spongioles or little roots
will push forth, and a corresponding healthy growth of the foliage be de-
veloped. It must be observed that this treatment will not answer if the
plants have made much progress. The autumn is the proper time for
root-pruning, and the plants should be cut down in proportion as the roots
are cut away. But all deciduous plants, such as Fuchsias, which are
just now pushing forth leaves, may be treated thus with advantage.

Repotting is demanded further by the deterioration of the soil. In the
open ground plants are supplied with proper nutriment by the application
of manure, and, their roots being unconfined, they can stray where they
please in search of food ; but in a pot these conditions are not fulfilled.
A little soil only can be given, and however rich it may be in fertilizing
qualities, they are soon filtered away by artificial watering. Then, again,
soil should be porous and open for a healthy vegetation to be secured ; and
therefore, although liquid manure might supply the losses of the soil, it
would not serve to keep it light and open. The next thing, therefore, to
be done, after the roots are reduced in size, is to repot them into an ap-
propriate soil. What that is, depends, of course, upon the nature and nat-
ural ci cumstances of the plant; but, for general use, any rich mould which
allows water to permeate freely will answer the purpose. If, when you

274 General Notices.

have repotted your plant, you find the pot feels as heavy as lead — that water
applied to the surface stops there, and only gradually disappears — you may
be sure your labor has been thrown away ; for no plant will remain healthy
in such a mass of clay. On the other hand, if the mould feels elastic when
pressed down, and water applied runs rapidly through it, your work may
be considered properly done. What is called good garden mould, with
about one-third its bulk in rotten leaves, and one-third of coarse sand, will
make a compost adapted to general purposes.

Many gardeners mistake the requirements of plants by seeking for what
they call fine mould; and some sift it, to secure this fancied advantage.
Coarse lumps, and even stones, will be of use rather than otherwise in keep-
ing the drainage clear. Every pot should also have about two inches of
broken crockery put into the bottom of it. For the same reason, water
should always be supplied in very small quantities. As much as will
moisten, without running through, should, if possible, be given, since every
portion beyond that washes the soil of its best properties. — Gardeners''
Chronicle, 1848, p. 268.

Sarawak, [Java,) — Its Soil, Climate, c^c. — Mr. Low describes the soil of
Sarawak as a strong, rich, yellow loam, covered, to a depth of from six
inches to a foot, with black and very productive vegetable mould. The
sugarcane attains great perfection without the slightest cultivation. Nut-
meg, planted for experiment, grew remarkably well, as also did the cinna-
mon and clove. The cabbage palm is the most esteemed vegetable pro-
duced in the island. The yet unopened fronds of a strong growing fern, a
species of Marattia, when boiled, form an excellent vegetable, much pre-
ferred by European residents. The shoots of the bamboo are also an es-
teemed vegetable, and, in the hands of the Europeans, make a most ex-
cellent pickle. Among the other more useful vegetable productions, Mr.
Low mentions the cocoa nut, sago palm, gomuti palm, betel, rice, &c. Of
vegetable productions collected for exportation, there are, Barus camphor,
the produce of Dryobalanops camphora, which grows to a very large size.
Vegetable tallow, or vegetable wax, a fatty oil obtained by the compres-
sion of tlie nuts of some species of Dipterocarpus ; the species most valued
attains the height of forty feet; the fruit is as large as a walnut, and
yields a large proportion of oil, which, in England, has proved far to sur-
pass olive oil for lubricating steam machinery. There are several other
oil-producing plants. The seeds of the niato, or gutta percha, produce
edible oil of a fine quality. The substance gutta percha, is more properly
gutta suban — the percha being an inferior article ; the tree is found in all
the forests of the peninsula of Malacca, of Borneo, Singapore, and the ad-
jacent i^!ands. Jintawan is a substance similar in all respects to caout-
chouc, and is the produce of a climbing plant of the genus Urceola, the
thick, soft bark of which, on being cut, emits the sap in the greatest abun-
dance, and without destroying the tree ; there are three kinds in Borneo ;
the fruit is one of the most grateful of the country to the European palate.
The celebrated Upas tree, Antiaris toxicaria, is found on the island, but
not coHimon : the poisonous sap flows freely from the bark when tapped.

General Notices. 275

Dammar, the resinous gum of many kinds of trees, quite different from
Damara australis, is an article of considerable trade. Tlie kulit lawang
of commerce is the aromatic bark of a wild species of cinnamon, and is
produced in abundance. Cotton of excellent quality has been produced
on the island, and its cultivation will probably hereafter become important.
Pepper is exportedin large quantities: this aromatic is not used by the
natives of the countries which produce it. Coffee thrives well. Tobacco
is grown in small quantities. The Theobroma Cacao proves to be prolific
in the island. Ginger grows well in the gardens, and turmeric is found
wild in abundance. Many valuable hard woods are produced in the mag-
nificent forests, but the trees are little known ; the hardest and most dura-
ble is called balean, and is almost incorruptible. There are in the island
upwards of sixty species of trees which produce excellent timber. Ebony
is abundant in many parts of the island. Several scented woods are
known to exist. The flowers of Borneo are not less grateful and beau-
tiful than the forests are grand and majestic. The most striking men-
tioned by Mr. Low, are, the species of Ccelogyne, called " flowers of mer-
cy," all highly fragrant, and exceedingly beautiful ; several Vandas, of
which a fine one has been named V. Lowei ; a beautiful Cypripedium ;
Dendrobiums are insignificant, but the Erias are abundant, and very beau-
tiful ; there are many beautiful species of Ixora and Pavetta ; four beau-
tiful species of Clerodendon, the handsomest of which, with crimson flow-
ers, named after Captain C. D. Bethune, is introduced to England ; Lysi-
onotus Aucklandii, surpassing any other yet known ; Hoya imperialis ; and
a showy species of Bauhinia. Perhaps the most gorgeous are the species
of Rhododendron, which here assume a peculiar form, being found epiphyt-
al on the trunks of trees ; the roots, instead of being small and fibrous,
as wiih the species of colder climates, become large and fleshy, winding
round the trunks of the forest trees. The most beautiful is the one I have
named in compliment to Mr. Brooke, [Rhododendron Brookeanum,] the
flowers being large, and in large heads, produced throughout the year, and
of all shades, from full rich yellow, to a rich, reddish salmon color. The
most attractive plants of all are, however, the pitcher plants, eight species
of which Mr. Low discovered in the western part of the island. "The
largest Bornean one, which I propose to call Nepenthes Hookeriana, in
honor of Sir W. J. Hooker, the able director of the Botanic Garden at
Kew, is found growing in deep and shady jungles, climbing to the tops
of the trees. The pitcher is nine inches in length, having a large lid
standing on a column which is a continuation of the beautiful edge of the
pitcher ; that part which is broadest, and turned towards the midrib of the
leaf from which it depends, is furnished with two broad wings, which are
beautifully ciliated ; the broad pitcher — for this, like the Rafflesiana, pro-
duces two kinds — is generally crimson ; the long pitcher differs from the
other in its trumpet shape and green color, which is spotted with crimson.
Six plants of this are now in England.

The fruits of the Indian islands since their first discovery have been held
in the highest esteem. Malaya's Nectared Mangustin has been, by all

276 General Notices.

writers, placed at the head of the native lists of fruits, its delicious and
delicate flavor having gained it a place, in the estimation of Europeans,
over the rich and luscious Durian. In my opinion — though both of these
are exceedingly fine, — the Lansat (Lansium,) when well ripened, lias a pe-
culiar aromatic flavor, combined with all the delicacy of the mangustin,
which renders its firm, transparent, and jelly-like pulp more agreeable.
The mangustin (Garcinia mangustina) is as large as a moderate apple — dark
purple outside, but, when cut, of a bright crimson, the seeds being embed-
ded in a white, grateful pulp. The durian (Durio zibethinus,) the strong
odor from which disgusts many Europeans, is from nine to twelve inches
in length ; of this fruit there are many kinds, some without the offensive
odor. A species of mangustin " produces the gamboge of commerce,
which exudes also in small quantities from the cultivated varieties." The
lansat is one of the finest fruits of the island ; it is small, and produced in
bunches from the stem and branches of the Lansium. Two kinds of bread
fruit exist in Borneo. The tampui is an orange-colored fruit, produced on
a small sapotaceous tree, with large dark-colored leaves ; its pulp is of a
sweetish acid; its fermented juice makes an intoxicating liquor, much es-
teemed by the Dyaks. The rhambut-an (Nephilium) is produced in
bunches terminally. The varieties of mango (Mangifera) are very numer-
ous, but not of fine flavor. Several kinds of jambu (Eugenia) are grown,
but are not held in high esteem. The climbing (Averrhoa,) of which
there are two kinds, is used in cookery.

There is a sketch of the zoology and mineralogy of Borneo, but the
greater part of the volume is occupied with an account of the history, cus-
toms, and institutions of the Borneans. — Low's Saraivak — Its Inhabitants.

Mushrooms. — We grow here a good many mushrooms on the old system,
generally one bed out of doors, another in the shed, about thirty feet long
each. Last winter the bed in the shed did not come into bearing at the
time I expected. About the beginning of March, I put on a lining of warm
manure, about two feet thick, and it remained on for a couple of weeks,
when, the bed being warm, it was taken off, and the bed covered with straw
hurdles. In three days I found the mushrooms coming, but very sparingly,
and they continued to come, but were nothing of a crop. The manure that
was taken off was put into a trench for cucumbers, in the month of April,
and, by the latter end of May, the mushrooms came up on the ridge quite
thick, and continued to do so during the whole of the summer till the month
of October, when the ridge was planted with cauliflowers for hand glasses,
and then they sprung up. The leaves of the cucumbers sheltered them
from the hot sun. I generally gathered three times a week. To get mush-
rooms in the hot months of summer, in the open air, is desirable, — {Guard.
Journal, 1848, p. 230.)

Lachenahas for Spring Flowering. — Those who neglect to grow a num-
ber of the available bulbous plants in pots, for the decoration of their green-
houses in early spring, forego a great amount of the variety and attract-
iveness of which they are capable. Foremost in this group of plants (not
commonly grown) we should place the Lachenalias. The habit of these

General Notices. 277

plants is very elegant : two or three leaves emerge from the soil, and from
the centre of these arises an erect stem, varying in height, in the different
kinds which are most worth cultivating, from six inches to a foot ; two-
thirds of this stem is covered with blossoms, which are tube-like, and hang
nearly perpendicular, one above another, all round the stem : remaining a
considerable time in perfection, and opening so that nearly the whole spike
of flowers is expanded at one time. They are easily grown. About Au-
gust, the roots, having for some time been in a dry, dormant condition,
should be repotted — singly, or two or three in a pot, according to taste — in
a compost of turfy peat and loam, well drained ; they will soon begin to
grow, and must be moderately supplied with water ; they may be wintered
on a shelf in the greenhouse. About April, and early in May, they will
naturally come into bloom, and may be had earlier by accelerating their
development in a gentle heat. The species that we should prefer are Lach-
enalia pendula, tricolor, and luteola, all of which bear yellow blossoms,
the latter having, in addition, a touch of green, and the two former a belt-
ing of red. — {Gard. Journ., 1848, p. 184.)

Results of the Successful Cultivation of the Grape. — The vineries are
each 40 feet by 18 wide ; the borders inside the houses are 12 feet wide,
and outside 18 feet ; and, as the fiont walls are built on arches, the vines
have a border of 30 feet to luxuriate in. The borders are made as follows :
1 foot 6 inches of brickbats and lime rubbish at the bottom, with cross
drains every twelve feet ; each is connected with a general drain in front of
the border ; this drain is 18 inches deeper than the bottom of the border.
The soil is a rich loam, (the top soil of a meadow,) mixed with about one-
fourth of lime rubbish, a little night-soil, and two horse-loads of rotten ma-
nure. The borders are two feet and a half in depth. The vines are
planted inside, one house with Hamburghs, and the other with the differ-
ent kinds of Muscats. Both houses were planted in March, 1846. The
principal part of the vines were raised from eyes the January preceding,
and the rest were weak vines from eyes in 1845, except three or four that
had been forced the year previous ; these latter have not done nearly so
well as the former. The vines grew finely the first season, making strong
wood, short-jointed, and ripened well ; they were pruned to about half the
length of each rafter. Forcing was commenced in both houses on the 10th
of February, 1847. I saw them in August following, and a finer crop, or
better fruit, I never witnessed, as far as they were pruned. The bunches
were large, the berries well swelled, and all a good color — not one of them
being shanked. The greatest number of bunches on one vine was twenty-
six, the least number, fourteen. The weight of the bunches was from lib.
to 2ilb. each ; the entire weight being nearly three hundred weight from
the thirty vines with which the houses were planted. This, your readers
will say, was a surprising crop for the second year after planting, and so,
no doubt, it was ; and now comes a very important question. Was it pru-
dent, on the part of Mr. Gerrie, to allow so many to remain on the first
season 1 and was he justified in so doing ? The result showed that he was.
The vines did their duty nobly. He was aware that the material in which

VOL, XIV. — NO. VI. 24

278 General Notices.

they grew was good ; the wood was strong, and well matured ; and he judged,
therefore, that he might allow them to produce the above quantity. Yes,
but says the critic, what will they do the next year? Will they not be
totally exhausted ? In answer to these questions, I reply that the vines are
this season showing well nearly to the top of the house, and are breaking
strong down to the bottom of each rafter, and showing fruit at nearly every
eye The Hamburghs were commenced in December last, and are now in a
forward state, quite as strong as any one need wish. The Muscats are also
now breaking well, and showing abundance of fruit. Many persons that
saw them last year prophesied that, this year, they would be a complete
failure ; such, however, happily is not the case, and such persons would do
well to visit Cooper's Hill, to be perfectly convinced they were mistaken in
their judgment. I conceive the great cause of the success is the sound
border — not too rich, and well drained, which caused the vines to make
wood well matured, and full of fruit-bearing sap. I have dwelt upon this
part of my subject somewhat long, but I was anxious to do justice to Mr.
Gerrie's good management of the vines. — {Gard. Journ., 1848, p. 182.)

Cullivaiion of Chinese Azaleas. — Your correspondent, "A New Sub-
scriber," should procure a lot of Azalea phosnicea for stocks. Small plants
struck laie last year, that are now in small 60-sized pots, if shifted into
large 60"s, and put into a hot frame now, will make most excellent plants
to work about the first week in June. I prefer phcenicea, for stocks, to any
other sort, for I find it will bear more rough treatment without injury than
any other, and may be grown as strong as any one can wish. A brisk,
moist heat, is necessary, and, if no better provision is made, a common
handglass in a hot frame will do exceedingly well to put the plants under
as soon as they are grafted. Take young shoots of the current year's
growth, about three or four joints long ; if the top of the shoot is used, pinch
out the heart. Side-grafting is best, and more readily done ; let the cut be
about half an inch long ; do not cut the stock deeper than the scion will fill
up ; tie with very soft bass, cotton, or worsted. If very large plants are
wanted in very little time, put three or four grafts on a plant. Set them
under the handglass as soon as they are done ; after which they only want
looking to, to mind they do not flag or get too damp. In two or three weeks,
they will begin to grow, when they will require a little air. I never have
a failure, and many of my plants flower the following year. The follow-
ing twelve are the best I am acquainted with : — 1. Formosum — fiery
red, fine shape, thick, firm corolla ; 2. Perryana — salmonish pink, fine
shape, thick, firm corolla; 3. Murrayana — bright deep rosy carmine, large,
good shape, and fair substance; 4. Ignescens — fiery crimson, large, very
showy, good substance, shape not first rate ; 5. Exquisite — French white,
or lilac, tinted with deep pink, bad shape, but so distinct in color as to he
generally grown and admired ; 6. Optima — fiery deep red, fine shape, thick,
firm corolla; 7. Grandis — fine purple, large, good substance, very showy ;

8. Variegata — French white and reddish pink, fine shape, thick, firm corolla ;

9. Gladstanesii — paper white, striped, and spotted with bright red, fine
shape, thick, firm corolla ; 10. Laieritia — brick red, fine shape, thick, firm

General Notices. 279

coralla; 11. Triumphans — salmon, fine shape, large, thick, firm corolla;
12. Sinensis — rich yellow, good shape and substance. Nos. 1, 2, 3, 5, 8,
9, and 10 should be worked, as they are very apt to go off if on their own
roots. The following are twelve other excellent sorts : — 1. Prince Albert
— fiery deep red, wants well growing, or it comes bad in shape ; 2. Double
red — ditto ; 3. Refulgens — deep rosy fiery crimson ; 4. Speciosissima — red-
dish crimson, very large and showy; 5. Alba perfecta — paper white; 6.
Prsestantissima — bright light purple ; 7. Rosea superb ; 8. Coccinea su-
perb— an improvement on Smithii coccinea ; 9. Vivicans — light purple,
large ; 10. Duke of Devonshire — dark red ; 11. Fulgens superb ; 12. Blanda
— salmon red. — (Gard. Journ., 1848, p. 197.)

Culture and Management of Greenhouse Specimens. — Mr. G. Mason read
an Essay on the General Culture and Management of Greenhouse Speci-
mens. He remarked that, in selecting a collection of plants for speci-
mens, there were two points of the greatest importance to be borne in mind :
the first was, contrast of colors ; the second was, diversification of foliage.
He also recommended novelties worthy of cultivation to be introduced. The
beginning of February, if the weather was mild, he considered the best
time for the commencement of potting ihese plants, in consequence of their
having made but little growth, and from the less injury they would sustain.
The essayist recommended potting progressively the first season, for he
considered that, if hard-wooded plants were potted according to the one-
shift system, there would not be that certainty of success, as if they were
potted according to the progressive system. He also observed that, in the
one-shift system, from the large quantity of soil consequently required, the
stationary situation it was in, and from frequent waterings, it was quite evi-
dent that it vi-ould become retentive, and become reduced to a state of com-
pactness, unfavorable to the growth of roots. The essayist did not con-
sider it necessary to enter into detail upon the different soils required for
different species, but recommended, as a general rule, to use the compost
in as fresh a state as possible, as he considered the chemical properties of
soil in a fresh state acted more readily than in that which had undergone
decomposition ; and also that the mechanical properties were much better.
If used as he recommended, he considered there would be no necessity for
the introduction of potsherds in the soil, which, in his opinion, were more
detrimental than useful. The plants recommended were those propagated
the previous summer, and of seedling plants as many as could be obtained.
As the plants in general were in small-sized sixty pots, he would shift them
into small forty-eights, or larger, according to the size and habits of the
plants, giving them a drainage of at least half an inch of potsherds ; this he
would do by placing a large crock in the bottom, smaller ones on these,
and cover the whole with a layer of moss or coarse peat. The house con-
sidered best adapted for growing specimen plants was span-roofed, of a
south and north aspect, as, in that case, they would receive all the solar
light possible to be obtained ; and, if placed under more unfavorable circum-
stances, they could not perform their functions in the decomposition of car-
bonic acid, or the elaboration of their food. The operation of potting be-

280 General Notices.

ing completed, the plants should be arranged as near to the glass as pos-
sible, and sufficient space allowed between plant and plant for the free cir-
culation of air, and the admission of light. The house to be kept close
for two or three weeks, until the plants had begun to make fresh roots,
except on bright days, when air should be given in the early part of the
day. No artificial heat to be given, except the weather was severe, and,
in that case, the temperature not to rise more than from 40 to 45 de-
grees Fahrenheit. The plants were to be syringed on those mornings
when the sun was shining, as it would assist the plants considerably in
the commencement of their growth. As the plants advanced in growth,
great attention was to be paid to the stopping of the leading shoots, for, if
neglected at this period, it would be a task of great difficulty to bring them
to their proper form, and at the expense of the plants at a future time. Sta-
king would be requisite to some degree, but should be dispensed with as
much as possible, for the number of stakes sometimes used not only have
an unsightly appearance, but also a tendency to injure the roots. By the
latter end of June, or the beginning of July, the plants were to be again
shifted — those in small forty-eights into small thirty-twos, and those in large
forty-eights into large thirty-twos, or small twenty-fours, according to the
state of the roots. At this season, he recommended syringing, both morn-
ing and evening, as it not only assisted considerably the growth of the
plants, but also preserved them from the attacks of insects, such as the
thrip and red spider. The best method of hardening the plants was by
leaving the house open all night, so that the plants might have all the air
possible, without being exposed to all the influences of the weather, such
as heavy rains, which are injurious to the health and appearance of the
plants. During the winter, the greatest attention was to be paid to the
watering, particularly in not giving too much. Dryness was also to be
guarded against, for, if such plants as Boronia serrulata, Styphelia tubi-
flora, &c., were allowed to get too dry, he considered it a task of impossi-
bility to restore them. Air was to be given on mild dry days freely, but
the house kept closed on wet and foggy days. The plants to be carefully
cleaned, and all damp or decayed leaves removed as soon as possible after
their appearance. Stirring up the surface of the soil was essentially neces-
sary for the admission and cirwilation of air to the roots; also for the equal
distribution of water. By the beginning of March, the plants were to be
transferred to pots sufficiently large for their growth the ensuing season —
twelves or sixteens, acxjording to the size of the plant ; these he considered
quite large enough in a general collection. Larger might be used in some
instances with advantage, but not to any extent, for such large pots were,
from their unsightly appearance, decidedly objectionable. In potting the
plants, the greatest attention was to be paid to the drainage ; he considered
two inches sufficient ; this was to be prepared in the same manner as rec-
ommended for the first shifting. After the plants were potted, all the old
stakes were to be taken out, and the plants rettaked and tied in the neatest
manner possible. They were then to be watered moderately, to settle the
soil equally, and to be kept close for a week or a fortnight, after which time

Domestic Notices. 281

air was to be given, increasing in proportion as the season advanced, and
the weather became warmer. Particular attention was to be paid to
the tying and stopping of the leading and irregular shoots, so as to keep
the plants as compact as possible. No definite plans could be laid down
for the training of creepers ; trellises of a flat, cylindricel, globular, or
balloon shape might all be used with equally good taste, according to
the purposes for which they were intended. If this course of treatment
were followed, by the end of the second season of their growth they
would have attained a size and character worthy of the name of " speci-
mens."— Mr. Patterson preferred using potsherds in the soil ; he consid-
ered the plants were benefited by them, and that they were required to keep
the soil porous and open. Mr. Saul agreed with tr e essayist, as he consid-
ered there would be no occasion for the introduction of potsherds if the soil
was used as reconimended. — Mr. Scott, Mr. Charles, and Mr. M'Laurin
agreed with Mr. Patterson; Mr. Stow, Mr. Walton, Mr. Combes, Mr.
Hood, and Mr. Watson coincided with the views of the essayist. A very
interesting discussion took place upon the different soils, manures, &c. —
{GardJourn., 1848, pp. 198, 199.)

Art. II. Domestic Notices.

Bayne''s Extra Early Strawberry — I have the greatest prospect for straw-
berries I have ever seen before ; shall be able to test a great many varieties
this season. Our season is very late, and almost a month later than I have
known. Some varieties of the strawberry are nearly ripe wivh me. But
the Extra early variety is nearly one week ahead of all others in the same
situation, although with you, or some gentleman near Boston, it proved so
late. I think there must have been some mistake. I have Princess Alice
Maud, the native Virginia, procured from you ; the Boston Pine, and sev-
eral other natives procured from different localities, but find mine decidedly
in advance of all. The fruit on the Boston Pine is not near so large at
this time as Hovey's Seedling, although in parallel rows, and both and all
on a hot south hill-side. They did not come into bloom by several days
as early as Hovey's Seedling. I shall, however, watch them all most
anxiously, as it is quite a desideratum to procure the earliest varieties. I
have never failed to get $ 1 per quart for the first. The Boston Pine is
growing with me most luxuriantly in various situations, and promises to
produce an abundant crop. I have also several of Prince's Seedlings on
trial. The early variety of mine, if cultivated on very rich ground, and a
level surface, will prove good for nothing. It seems lo delight in a sandy,
gravelly soil, and on southern slopes. — Most respectfully yours, John H.
Bayne, Alexandria, Va., May 6, 1848.

[We have never tried the Extra Early variety raised by our correspond-
ent : for, having seen specimens received for it, which were later than the
24*

282 Domestic Notices.

Early Virginia, we did not think it an important addition. Probably soil
and cultivation were the cause of its lateness. Some strawberries require
peculiar treatment to bring out their true character. It may have been
that the specimens we saw were not the true kind. The Boston Pine, we
can assure Dr. Bayne, is with us one loeek earlier than the Seedling. — Ed.]

Aberdeen Beehive Slraivberry. — This variety, now under culture by sev-
eral American growers, is unfortunately & staminale variety, and, from this
circumstance, but little can be expected from it. If our transatlantic friends
will transmit us an estimable pistillate variety, we shall feel in reality
under obligations to them, but, until then, we ask them iofavur us with
no more staminates similar to the British Queen, Myatt's Pine, Myatt's
Eliza, and such trash. In fact, we have new American Tarieties supe-
rior to any that England can boast. — W. R. P., May, 1848.

[This is altogether a premature opinion. Its being staminate is no rea-
son why it is not a most valuable variety. We have already stated, (p. 218,)
that we have our doubts of its coming up to the description given of it at
the page referred to, but by no means because it is staminate. We have
had under our care, and have seen under the cultivation of others, enor-
mous crops of Keen's Seedling — to this day the best strawberry in Eng-
land— a staminate variety. The tendency of the vines to winter-kill and
to burn up in summer is the great objection to that variety, otherwise it
would be extensively cultivated. To condemn the Beehive in advance of
its fruiting because it is staminate, is perfectly absurd. — Ed.]

Siraiiberry Challenge. — You will perceive, by the Horticulturist, that I
have accepted the $500 challenge offered by Nicholas Longworth, Esq., of
Cincinnati, for a productive staminate strawberry. I wish now to invite
you and all other amateurs of this favorite fruit, and especially our highly
intelligent and esteemed friends, Messrs. Wilder and Walker, to visit my
collection when in fruit about the 10th to 15th of June. I will guarantee
that all shall feel satisfied that the time has not been misspent. I now an-
nounce that there does not exist on the earth a collection of strawberries
presenting any comparison to my present one, and those who will inspect it
will wonder that they should have been misled by cultivating the trash sent
out from Europe with high-sounding names during the last ten years, when
such superior varieties can be produced on our own soil. Mr. Longworth
and myself are perfectly agreed that every European staminate variety has
proven comparatively worthless for American culture, and, with regard to
any pretended novelties from Europe, the simple inquiry whether it is stam-
inate or pistillate, will settle the point as to its value or worthlessness. On
our own soil, however, we may produce staminate varieties more congenial
o our climate, some of which will produce fair crops, and such has been
the case with several of our new seedling varieties. Under this head, I
would call especial attention to the new seedling varieties of the Monte
Video Pine. These are of stronger growth than any other class, the blos-
soms, in many cases, as large as a dollar, and they form the most splendid
family of strawberries as regards size, form, flavor, and color of the fruit
that has ever been seen. It is a singular fact that no seedling varieties of

Massachusetts Horticultural Society. 283

this ir.agtiificont species have yet been produced in Europe, and, in fact,
the original variety is there d m aratively unknown, it being fou: d in but
three or four collections in all Europe. We may also refjr to the large
and beauti ul seedling varieties which have been obtained from ths Prince
Albert, and the Crimson Cone, and which are unequalled by any but the
preceding.

During the last autumn and winter, we have been gratified at receiving
orders from Europe for our new and superior American varieties, and we
predict that, i". a few years, every variety hitherto cultivated in England
will be cast aside there as utterly worthless in the comparison. — Yours very
respeclfuUy, Win i? Prince, Linnaan Botitmc Garden and Nurseries,
Flushing, L. I., May, 1848.

Severity of the Winter at Albany. — We have had a very severe winter
for young trees and shrubbery of all kmds, as well as lor peach, plum, and
cherries ; our prospects for fruit of these kinds is meagre indeed ; the peach
and plum cmp will amount to little or nothing — the blossoms having been
killed by the extreme vicissitudes of the winter — and the cherries promise
but very little better. I have tree after tree without a blossom upon them,
while the pear and apple trees are filled with bloom. You are aware that
I protected my young pear trees last fall with straw, and I am much pleased
that I did so, for I have not lost or had materially injured a single tree
out of over a hundred so protected. A few trees removed early in the au-
tumn, before the leaves had fallen, and from which the leaves were cut with
a knife, have been killed down to near the ground, but not destroyed. I
wish to recommend this plan of protecting young and rare varieties of the
pear to those who wish to use the wood for scions, for you are aware that
the bark of young trees is very often so much injured by the winter's sun
as to render the wood unfit for such purpose. — Yours very truly, Herman
Wendell, Academy Park, Albany, N. Y., May, 1848.

Art. III. Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Saturday, April 29lh, 1818. — Exhibited. — Fruit: From J. F. Allen, fine
Black Hamburgh grapes.

May 6th. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day — the
President in the chair.

Voted, that the Recording Secretary be requested to distribute through
the parcel post the tickets of the members and invited guests.

Mr. Newhall submitted a motion, that " appropriations for the objects of
this Society be made at the stated meetings in January, April, July, and
October, and at no other meeting :" — agreeably to the wish ofthe mover, it
was laid upon the table, for action at the stated meeting in July.

George W. Warren, Wm. S. Nelson, and J. J. Clarke, were admitted
members.

Adjourned four weeks, to 1st Saturday in June.

284 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

May \2lh. — The first general display of the season tool» place to-day in
the Society's Hal! ; and we are gratified to state that it was far superior to
any exhibition of the season ever made ; not only were the specimens nu-
merous, and of a varied character, but what to us, at least, was the most
important — evincing, as it did, a higher degree of skill, — was the su-
perior growth and beauty of the plants. This, indeed, is the great object
of the Society. Novelties will always hold a prominent place in the exhi-
bitions,— but the principal prizes must be given where the skill of the culti-
vator has been most exerted.

The Pelargoniums surpassed any thing of the kind ever seen, and will
form a new era in the cultivation of this exquisite family. The great dif-
ference in the roundaess of the flowers, as well as the depth and brilliancy of
coloring, between the new and old varieties, can scarcely be believed, without
examination. We were glad to find so just an appreciation of Mr. Beck's
seedhngs, and it justifies our opinion, that fine varieties of plants have only
to be exhibited, to immediately find innumerable admirers.

The President of the Society exhibited a variety of }.lants, among which
were a large Azalea variegata, three feet in diameter, and A. exquisita, tricolor
and decora, new and handsome ; twenty plants of Ericas, viz: E. vestita^le-
gans, E. ventricosa alba, superba and breviflora, E. odoiAta, and a species
without name, very handsome ; iiliura teslaceum, (two plants) fuchsias,
cinerarias, &c., and a great display of Lamarque, Solfitaire and other roses.

From Messrs. Hovey & Co., eighteen pelargoniums, embracing the fol-
lowing varieties : — Beck's Centurion, Rosamund, and Grandiflora, Foster's
Orion, Drury's Pearl, and Celestial : these six carried ofl^'Mr. Beck's special
prize of £b. Beck's Blanche, Uesdemona, Isabella, Rosy circle, and Ser-
geant, and Celestial : these were awarded the Society's 1st prize in class I.
Beck's Mustee, Zanzummin, Gigantic, and Marc Antony, Hovey 's Jenny
Lind and Celestial : these were awarded the 1st prize in class H. ; also a
plant of Campanula nobilis.

From W. Quant, eighteen pelargoniums of various kinds, [not named,]
six fuchsias, six cinerarias, six calceolarias, a splendid specimen of Ixora
coccinea, and Araucaria exc^lsa, and other plants and cut flowers. From
John Cadness, fine plants of Cryptom^ria japonica, Clematis azurea grandi-
flora, Azalea variegata, six cinerarias, six calceolarias, and other plants, bo-
quets, cut flowers, &c. From John Quant, six pelargoniums, viz., Matilda,
Joan of Arc, Orange Boven, Sylph, Lady Douro and Prince Albert; these
obtained Beck's special prize of £2 ; also, a fine specimen of Lech-
enaullja formosa, Pimelea spectabile, Brugmansia, Epiphyllums, &c.

Plants, cut flowers, bouquets, &ic., from Messrs. Breck & Co., T. Need-
ham, R. M. Copeland, E. M. Richards, A. Bowditch, P. Barnes, James
Nugent, and others.

Fruit: From J. F. Allen, fine specimens of Pitmaston white cluster,
Early black, Zmfindal, Miller's Burgundy, Black Hamburgh, and Grizzly
Frontignan grapes ; also figs and lemons. The committee who tasted of the
fruits, state that they were of ^'Jine flavor, though so eaily in the season."

Massachusetts Hoi'ticultural Society. 285

Vegetables : From John Quant, a brace of handsome cucumbers. From
Thomas Needhani, Lettuces.

Premiums were awarded as follows : —

Pelargoniums. Class I. To Hovey & Co., for the best six dissimilar
plants, in 8-irich pots, $6.
To Wm. Quant, for the second best, $\.

Class II. To Hovey & Co., for the best six dissimilar plants, $6.
To Azel Bowditch, for the second best, $4.
Roses. No premiums awarded.
Fuchsias. To Wm. Quant, for the best six varieties, $6.

No competition for the second premium.
Heaths. To John Quant, for the best six, $2.
Various sorts. To Wm. Quant, for the best display, $8.

To John Quant, for the second best display, ^5.
Cinerarias. To Wm. Quant, for the best six varieties, $3.

To John Cadness, for the second best, $2.
Calceolarias. To John Cadness, for the best six varieties, $3.

To Wm. Quant, for the second best, ^2.
Cacti. To Azel Bowditch, for the best six varieties, ^3.

No competition for the second premium.
Hyacinths. To R. M. Copeland, for the best display, $5.

To J. Breck & Co., for the second best, $3.
Bouquets. To John Cadness, for the best vase, $2.
To A. Bowditch, for the best parlor, $2.
To John Cadness, for the second best, $\.
Cut Flowers. To Thomas Needham, the first premium of $3.

To Wm. Quant, the second, ^2.
Gratuities. To the President of the Society, for a fine display of green-
house plants, .$8. For a splendid show of roses, $3.
To Wm. Quant, for a fine plant of Ixora coccinea, $3.
To James Nugent, for a fine show of cut flowers, $2.
Mr. Beck's Special Prizes por Pelargoniums. To Hovey & Co., for
the best six dissimilar plants, in 8-inch pots, $25.
To John Quant, for the second best, $10.
Maij 20th. Exhibited. — Flowers : From the President of the Society,
a variety of flowers, among which were a species of Carragana, Spirae^a
Drouettu, (new,) Ghent azaleas, several kinds of lilacs. Tree paeonies, &c.;
also, four fine plants of Erica ventricosa fragrans, Azalea Gledstanesn, and
cut flowers of Lamarque and Solfilaire roses, a seedling camellia, &c.
From N. J. Becar, Brooklyn, N. Y., a collection of flowers of some fine
calceolarias; also, pelargoniums. From Jos. Breck & Co., choice tulips
and cut flowers of various kinds.

From Messrs. Hovey & Co., cut flowers of pelargoniums, among which
were Becll's Aurora, Cassandra, Rosamund, Centurion, Desdemona, Isa-
bella, Marc Antony, Hebe's Lip, &c., Lyne's Forget-me-not, and others.
From J. Cadness, a pretty specimen of Calystegia pubescens, with several
flowers ; also, tulips, bouquets, &c. From S. Walker, pretty ranuncu-

286 Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

luses and other flowers. Flowers, plants, bouquets, &c. from A. Bow-
ditch, John Quant, Messrs. Winship, A. Aspinwall, W. Kenrick, James
Nugent, 0. Everett, J. King, John Kenrick, and others.
Premiums were awarded as follows : —

Tulips. To John Cadness, for the best thirty dissimilar blooms, $8.
To Joseph Breck & Co., for the second best, $6.
To S. Walker, for the third best, $3.
Pot Plants. To John Quant, for the best six plants, $2,

To Azel Bowditch, for the second be.st, $\.
Parlor Bouquets. To Messrs. Winship, for the best parlor bouquets, $2.

To A. Bowditch, for the second best, $1.
Vase Bouquets. To A. Bowditch, for the best vase bouquet, $2.

To John Cadness, for the second best, $1.
Gratuities. To John Cadness, for a plant of Calyst^gia pub6scens,$3.
To Joseph Breck & Co., for a fine display of tulips, %3.
To N. J. Becar, Esq., the Society's Silver Medal, for a great variety
of beautiful calceolarias.
Fruit : From W. Quant, fine specimens of Black Hamburgh and Muscat
of Alexandria grapes. From J. F. Allen, of Salem, Black Hamburgh,
Grizzly Frontignan, and seven other sorts of grapes, all well grown.

Vegetables : From Wm. Quant, very fine asparagus. From J. Quant,
two brace of cucumbers. From John Hill, asparagus and rhubarb, very
fine, presented too late for premium.

May 27th. Exhibited. — Flow^ers : From the President of the Society,
a variety of plants, including Enca Bowieana and Azalea GledstanesM,-
also, cut flowers of several Tree paeonies, among which was one called
rosea sup6rba, a magnificent new one, with very deep red flowers, quite dis-
tinct, apparently a cross between the common double red and the BankseVe ;
with these were Grand Duke de Bade, Monstr6sa alba plenissima, Rocoeco,
&c., and other cut flowers. From Jos. Breck & Co., a fine show of her-
baceous and Tree pasonies. From Messrs. Winship, a variety of cut flow-
ers of shrubs, azaleas, hawthorns, &c.

From Messrs. Hovey & Co., fine pansies, twenty-two varieties of beauti-
ful azaleas, ranunculuses, and six kinds of hawthorns. From J. A. Ken->
rick, fine clusters of flowers of the Wistaria sinensis, and azaleas, haw-
thorns, &c. From E. S. Rand, Esq., Dedham, a bouquet, composed of
indigenous plants. From John Cadness, fine plants of 7?hodod6ndron pon-
ticum, seedling calceolarias and cinerarias, Anigozanlhuscoccineus, and cut
flowers of Tree pasonies, in eight or ten varieties. From A. Aspinwall, a
splendid collection of roses. Bouquets, roses, cut flowers, &c. from E.
Wight, W. Quant, W. Mellar, W. Kenrick, S. Downer, Jr., P. Barnes,
E. M. Richards, James Nugent, A. Bowditch, S. Walker, and others.
Premiums and gratuities were awarded as follows : —
Tree Peonies. To J. Cadness, for the greatest number of varieties, $5^

To J. Breck & Co., for the greatest display, $3.
Hardy Azaleas, 'i'o Hovey & Co., for the best display, fS.
To Messrs. Winship, for the second best, $2,

Horticultural Memoranda. 287

Plants in Pots. To W. Quant, for the best six, $2.

To John Cadness, for the second best, $1.
Vase Bouquets. To James Nugent, for the best pair, $2.

To A. Bowditch, for the second best, $1.
Mantel Bouquets. To W. Quant, for the best pair, $2.

To Messrs. Winship, for the second best, $1.
Gratuities. To S. Walker, for fine ranunculuses, $3.

To A. Bowditch, for a display of anemonies, $3.
Vegetables : From J. Quant, a brace of cucumbers. From W. Quant,
Victoria rhubarb, two stalks weighing 3 lbs. 8 oz. From A. McLennan,
gardener to Mrs. Pratt, Victoria rhubarb, two stalks weighing 3 lbs. 4 oz.
From John Cadness, Victoria rhubarb. From Mrs. Spaulding, rhubarb.

HORTICULTURAL MEMORANDA

FOR JUNE.

FRUIT department.

Grape Vines in, the greenhouse or vinery will now require less attention ;
if the thinning, shouldering, &c., has been thoroughly done, no other care
will be necessary but to attend to the temperature, giving due quantities of
water, and taking off the laterals. Air should be given very early, admit-
ting more as the day advances, and closing up early in the afternoon.
Damping the floors and walks should be repeated according to the situation
of the house ; if quite dry and airy, three times a day ; if not, only once
after closing the sashes. Young vines just planted should have the leading
shoot carefully tied up, the tendrils all cut away, and the laterals taken off
at the first or second joint. Vines in cold houses will now require the same
attention directed in our last for the greenhouse. The bunches will be
ready for thinning and shouldering the latter part of the month, and this
should be done carefully, and without delay. If the borders have not been
dug, they should also be finished now.

Strawberry beds will require a final weeding now before the fruit begins
to ripen ; straw should also be laid along the rows to keep the fruit off of
the ground. New beds may yet be made.

Grafted and budded trees should be carefully looked over, and the buds tied
up. Disbud all superfluous shoots.

Pear, apple, and other fruit trees may be summer-pruned now : this is just
the time to commence by taking off the tops of the side shoots so as to form
spurs, but allowing the terminal ones to grow till next month.

Peach trees in pots, now swelling up their fruit, should be liberally wa-
tered, using liquid guano.

Insects should still be looked after ; if the aphis are troublesome, syringe
with oil soap : early attention to this will prevent much injury to the trees.
flower department.

Pelargoniums will still be finely in flower if they have been properly
managed : during the heat of the day, when the sun is out, they should be

28S Horticultural Memoranda.

shaded from 11 till 2 o'clock; and they will remain in beauty much lon-
ger. Next month will be the time to head them down.

Gloxinias and Achimenes will be prominent objects during the summer,
and will add more to the decoration of the greenhouse than any other plants;
a succession should be brought on ; the earliest should be now shifted for
the last time ; and the latest should now be potted off. Be careful to use
only light heath soil.

Dahlias should be planted out before the 25th, if a good bloom is ex-
pected ; later than that, they will not do well unless the plants are quite
large and strong.

Hydrangea japonica should now be shifted into large pots, if not done
before.

Anemone japonica should now be potted into 10-inch pots, in which they
are to bloom.

Scarlet Gerajiiums, now turned out into the border, will make a fine show
all summer.

Camellias should now be all removed to the open air, if not already done,
unless there is no opportunity to do so : in that case, the glass should be
entirely coated with whiting to break the rays of the sun. But they do
best if they can be placed in the open air. The last of this month is a good
time to repot the plants. Plants inarched early may now be detached
from the old stock, and placed in a warm shady place for a few days. Cut-
tings may be put in as soon as the wood is ripe. Syringe often, and water
freely at the root.

Veronica speciosa should be removed to the open air ; the change of tem-
perature is sure to throw it into flower.

Ericas may now be turned out of the pots into the open ground, select-
ing a light soil, and an open airy situation.

Japan Lilies will be in bloom the last of the month : keep them liberally
watered.

Carnations and Picotees will require attention : carefully tie up the flower-
stems as they advance.

Azaleas (Chinese) of all kinds may be potted this month, and then plunged
in the ground in a dry situation : grafting may be done now.
Verbenas should now be turned out into the open border.
Roses may be now propagated from cuttings ; plants in pots should now
be turned out into the ground, where they will make a fine growth before
autumn.

Fuchsias will now require another shift, if large specimens arc wanted.
Let the soil be light and rich for the final polting.

Chinese Primroses. — Seedlings potted off" last month will now need a
shift into the second size pots : keep in a cool, half-shady place.
Euphorbia jacquincrjlor a should now be repotted.

Calla celhiopica may now be dried off" gradually and the pots turned on
their sides until September.

Plunge all kinds of plants in tan or earth to keep them from drying up.

THE MAGAZINE

HORTICULTURE.

JULY, 1848.

ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

Art. I. Notes on Gardens and Nnj'series m the Vicinity of
New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington.
By the Editor.

{Concluded from jpage 244.)

Philadelphia, March 17th, 1848. — An increasing taste for
plants and flowers has caused the estabhshment of several
new gardens and nurseries since our visit in 1845. And
while these new gardens have furnished a good supply, the
older ones, with one exception, have greatly increased their
facilities for extending their business, and have made many
additions by the importation of new plants. At another op-
portunity, we trust we may have more leisure to give some
account of the gardens of these new aspirants for a portion
of the favors of amateurs and lovers of plants.

Exotic Niirsej-y of R. Bidst. — Several additions have
been made to this establishment, and we found, that, since
1845, the old flower-garden, fronting Eleventh Street had
given way to a low, lean-to roofed camellia house, adapted
for bringing forward young stock ; it faces the north, and is
about sixty feet long, and fifteen wide. The whole stage
and front shelf was filled with plants — including seedlings —
from one to three feet high. From this, we passed into the
old camellia house, stocked with larger plants, several of
which were yet in bloom, though the high season had passed.
Among the number, we noticed Halley's Monarch, of consid-
erable reputation, but showing no signs of excellence, the

VOL. xrv. — NO. VII. 25

290 Notes on Gardens and Nurseries.

color a common red ; Queen Victoria, (Fielder's,) also highly-
recommended, is but an indifferent flower, — red, with a vein-
ing of white, having the appearance — from the indistinctness
of the latter color — of being a faded flower.

In the Propagating House, we found a good stock of plants
coming on, and, among the novelties here, two seedling aza-
leas ; one very similar to Gledstanesii, with scarcely as much
red in the petals, and more regularly distributed; it will be a
good acquisition. The other seedling was a white, of the
habit of variegata.

Passing to the long range of glass on the other side of the
garden, divided into many compartments, we noticed Mr.
Buist had a good stock of Tom Thumb geranium, as also
another new and fine, the Brighton Hero. Azalea Wil-
liamsu was here in flower, brilliant from the fine violet pur-
ple tinge in the petals, but of a stragghng habit, and indif-
ferent foliage, which will prevent its being a very popular
variety. Mr. Buist must try to produce the same tint on a
plant having the habit of the variegata. The azalea is sus-
ceptible of great improvement, both in the foliage and flow-
ers : the former may be much broader and richer, or more
delicate and less deciduous, than some of the varieties ; and
the flowers may be brought to a better and rounder outline.
A few years since, it was thought the pelargonium could
never be made a round flower; but, by patience and perse-
verance, Mr. Beck has attained this great object, and, if ac-
quired in one tribe, it can be in another. Mr. Mackenzie,
whose place we shall notice, has, in this respect, achieved
wonders. Centradenia rosea, a plant of no great beauty,
was blooming profusely ; Brugmansia Knightii, with its
double trumpet-shaped flowers, was in fine bloom. A quan-
tity of seedling amaryllises, all from the same seed-pod, were
quite different, and all exceedingly pretty : somewhat in the
way of vittata, but better. Acacia spectabilis, nitida, and
some other species, were making fine specimens for another
season : out of flower or in flower, they are always objects of
beauty. One end of this range was filled with a lot of seed-
ling and worked camellias ; among the latter, C. Alexina, but
so much like americana, that few could detect the difference.
A new seedling of immense size, but ordinary in other re-

L.andreth and Fidtoii's Nurseries. 291

spects, was just in bloom. The usual stock of popular plants
occupied the other compartments. Mr. Buist has now con-
nected with his nursery a seed store in Chestnut Street, where
he is prosecuting a thriving business.

Garden of P. Blackenzie. — The new camellia house, which
had but just been completed at the time of our last visit, was
now stocked with one of the finest collections of plants we
have seen, embracing some superb specimens of candidissima,
tricolor, Lowii, Donckelaeru, double white, (fcc. Mr. Mac-
kenzie made a tour in England in 1844, and purchased many-
fine specimens, but, under his judicious management, they
have been greatly improved in size, form, health, and beauty.
Some of the double whites were one mass of foliage from the
pot up. Mr. Mackenzie has also been fortunate in being the
possessor of the fine collection of camellias made by the late
Mr. Campbell, who bequeathed the whole of them, valued at
fifteen hundred dollars, to Mr. Mackenzie.

One house was completely crammed with azaleas, from
seedlings three inches high to very large plants. We have
just stated that Mr. Mackenzie has done a great deal towards
attaining a perfect form in the azalea, and we do not doubt
that, in the quantity of seedlings coming on, he will be ena-
bled to add some exquisite varieties to our collections. A.
Remingtonzi is a superb flower; but A. Mackenziedwa the
originator thinks the best of his seedhngs. The plants were
not yet in bloom.

Among the things which struck our fancy, were two spe-
cies of acacia, A. pulchella and A. floribunda, the latter
dwarf and compact in habit, with linear leaves, the branches
wreathed with its yellow blossoms. Most of the acacias form
great tall straggling plants before they bloom, and are, there-
fore, illy adapted to amateur collections where there is only a
small greenhouse : but A, floribunda is not one of them ; for
many of the plants, not three feet high, were one mass of flow-
ers : so with A. pulchella, which has pinnate foliage. Another
fine object was Gesnera oblonga, a plant of free growth, and
spikes of tubular scarlet flowers. The roses were blooming
finely, and the whole collection we found in the very best order.

Landreth and Fulton's Nurseries. — This old establishment,
we found, was about to come under the hammer, as the part-

292 Notes ow Gardens and Nurseries.

nership was about to be dissolved, and the premises leased,
Mr. Fulton intending to establish himself in the business near
by, and Mr. Landreth confining his labors to the raising
of seeds, which he has so long and successfully been en-
gaged in. Since our visit, the whole of the plants have been
sold.

In the collection, were some superb specimens of Camelh'a
var. Landrethii, which was produced here, and, in all, there
were some ten thousand camellias, including stocks, offered
for sale. We believe we understood Mr. Fulton to state, that
the culture of the camellia would be one of the principal
objects, as soon as he established himself in his new place.

Brooklyn^ N. Y., March 2\st. Residence of Mr. Becar,
Henry Street. — To the real lover of plants, it is a source of
the highest gratification to visit Mr. Becar's collection at this
season of the year. Entirely unlike all other places, where
plants are crowded together as if the object was — as it too
often is — to hide the plants, every thing is here allowed an
abundance of room ; and no plant, which has not sufficient
attraction as a single isolated object, is not considered as de-
serving a place in the conservatory. The camellias are, of
course, the principal objects, and nearly or quite all the room,
saving a few shelves, is devoted to the plants. Mr. Becar,
as most of our readers well know, from our previous notices
of his garden, is one of the most successful cultivators of the
camellia ; and a more healthy, deep green foliage, or a hand-
somer and more vigorous growth, we never saw.

Mr. Becar is constantly adding to his collection, which in-
cludes all the finest kinds, and also some beautiful ones of his
own production. Those now in fine bloom were the follow-
ing : — Landrethi^, a fine large plant, five feet ; Prince Albert,
a pretty carnation, flowered variety, but little imperfect in
the centre ; Palmer's Perfection, Duchess of Orleans, Henry
v., Buist's Eliza ; General Washington, (Boll's,) a fine flower,
but does not open freely ; CoUetti and Monteronii, the last
white, striped, and cupped ; Brooklynia, one of the very best,
of a rich dark rose, perfect in form, superbly imbricated,
and one of the finest flowers ; this is a seedling of Mr. J. B.
Smith, of Philadelphia, and was accidentally found among a
lot of plants purchased at his great sale some years ago.

J. ^ p. Henderson, Florists. 293

Among the seedlings we noticed one very fine one, produced
from C. var. Colviilu', impregnated with Donckelaerii, very-
large, deep rose, spotted, or marbled Avith white. Another,
much like tricolor, .but more double : imbricata, myrtifolia,
and other magnificent specimens, were also in flower.

We have already remarked (X. p. 41,) upon Mr. Becar's
culture of the camellia. The great charm of his collection,
is the superior form and vigor of the plants ; these are ob-
tained only by constant care and attention ; a free use of the
knife, and tving out the branches in their proper places, are the
two main things to attend to ; persevering with these, plants
forming perfect pyramids from the pot up, will, in a short time,
repay the possessor, one of which is, in truth, worth a dozen
crooked and ill-shaped plants, with here and there a blossom.

In the greenhouses, besides numerous small camellias, we
noticed many fine pelargoniums and azaleas, and some seed-
ling calceolarias, which have bloomed superbly since our
visit. But the camellia excludes most all other plants.

The season was yet too early to see any thing in the open
ground.

New York, May 22d. Greenhouse of Mr. 7\ Dimlap,
Broadway. — The large greenhouse here, which is the great
attraction of Mr. Dunlap's city establishment, we found well
filled with a good stock of showy plants. Since our last visit
Mr. Dunlap has removed the glass from that part of the
store connecting the greenhouse with it, as it was found im-
possible to prevent leakage from the glass, which prevented
the use of the room for seeds. The Harlem garden furnishes
an abundance of flowers for bouquets and plants for sale,
and the greenhouse, 100 feet long, is ample for all purposes
of show. We hope soon to give a full account of the grounds
at Harlem, which now contain six or eight large greenhouses,
forcing houses, propagating houses, &c.

Jersey City. Messrs. J. 4* P- Henderson, Florists. — Messrs.
Henderson, one of whom is known to our readers as the
author of an excellent article on Transplanting Large Trees,
(Vol. XH. p. 248,) have taken the premises formerly occupied
by Mr. Briell, who has removed to Flushing, L. I. The
principal business of Messrs. Henderson is the raising of
vegetables for the New York market, but they also keep two
25*

294

May Apple.

or three greenhouses well filled with roses, heath s^ and some
of the most popular and saleable plants. Heaths are raised
in considerable quantities, being turned out of the pots in sum-
mer, in an airy situation, and taken up, potted, and wintered
in frames, by which mode of treatment they make large
blooming plants in two years. In our hot and drying climate,
they succeed much better in this way than when kept in
pots, setting aside the labor and expense attending the care of
a good stock. We found one house nearly filled with prairie
roses.

The weather being warm, preparations were making for
planting out lettuces, early cabbages, cauliflowers, &c., in
great quantities.

Art. II. Description and Engraving of the May Apple.
By T. S. HuMRicKHousE, Coshocton, Ohio.

This apple has been extensively sold by the Myers's from
their nurseries. It is different from any apple I know. I

Fig. 28. May Apple.

suppose Mr. Samuel Myers, of Richland, can tell its history,
and whether it be a new or an old variety. It is a very val-

Summer Pruning Dwarf Fruit Trees. 295

uable winter sweet apple, keeping sound a long time, and
ranking with the Romanite in its keeping qualities, but much
before it, both as a cooking and dessert apple. The descrip-
tion is as follows :

Size^ medium, two and three quarter inches broad by two
and a half deep : Form, oblate, narrowing a little towards
the crown : Ski?i, smooth, bright yellow, sometimes russet
next the stem, with a slight blush next the sun : Stem, me-
dium length, three quarters of an inch, slender, and inserted
in a regularly funnel-shaped cavity : Fi/e, rather small, and
slightly sunk in an irregularly curved basin : Flesh, yellow-
ish white, and tender : Juice, tolerably abundant and sweet :
Seeds, small; Core, small, broader than deep. Keeps till
May, and is in eating by first of January.

Coshocton, Ohio, April, 1848.

Art. III. Summer Pruning Dwarf Fruit Trees, as prac-
tised in France. By R. Thompson, Superintendent of the
Fruit Department in the Garden of the London Horticul-
tural Society. With Remarks. By the Editor.

We have, from time to time, especially in our Horticultural
Memoranda, given brief directions in regard to the method
of summer pruning fruit trees. We have also copied numer-
ous papers from our foreign periodicals treating upon the
same subject ; and our correspondent, Mr. Carmichael, who
was formerly in the garden of the horticultural society, under
Mr. Thompson, has furnished us with his excellent articles,
(Vol. X. pp. 164, 215,) in which the whole system is de-
scribed, and the rationale of the practice made familiar to
every cultivator. To his articles we would invite the atten-
tion of all who intend to adopt this mode of management,
as they are plain, concise, and to the point.

Last season, Mr. Thompson made a tour to Paris, for the
purpose of noting the progress of horticulture in that city,
and he subsequently published an account of his visit in the
Journal of the Horticultural Society, (Yol. II. p. 202,) in

296 Summer Pnining Dwarf Fruit Trees.

which he particularly speaks of the French mode of summer
pruning trees. It was our intention to give a full abstract of
this article when the Journal came to hand ; but, from some
cause, not having yet reached us, we now present that por-
tion of it which we find in the Gardener'' s Chronicle^ as the
season has arrived when this operation of pruning should be
commenced.

It is scarcely necessary for us to remark, that, around Paris,
as our readers know, from our account of the gardens there,
(XI. p. 243,) nearly or quite all the pears are cultivated as
dwarfs or pyramidal trees. These specimens, as we have
stated, are perfect models as regards form and management,
being from twelve to fifteen feet high, symmetrically shaped
from the ground up, and, with few exceptions, clothed with
fine specimens of fruit.

Practising summer pruning to a great extent ourselves,
having more than a thousand trees under our care, many of
which are in full bearing, we intend to give more in detail
the results of our experience, accompanying the same with
sketches illustrating the advantages derived from this mode
of pruning ; but, in the mean time, as cultivators will like to
know the opinions of all, we invite their attention to the fol-
lowing hints upon the mode adopted by the best French gar-
deners, M. Cappe, having the charge of the fruit department
of the Jardin des Plantes, which contains some of the finest
specimens we saw during our tour. Mr. Thompson appears
to have been surprised at their symmetrical appearance, and
thus alludes to them : —

" The pyramidal trained pear trees are from ten to fifteen
feet high or more, having a regularly tapering outline from
the base to the top, where they terminate in a single shoot.
The young plant is stopped according to its strength, and so
as to furnish side branches. The.se are not in stages at uni-
form distances along the stem; on the contrary, almost every
shoot which breaks out from the stem is allowed to grow ;
but the laterals produced on these are pinched in summer^ and
even such of the leading shoots as appear likely to become
too strong for the others, are stopped. M. Cappe pinches all
the young shoots, not required to form branches, when iii a
very young state ; when they have scarcely pushed a finger's

Summer Pruning Dioarf Fruit Trees. 297

length, they are shortened to about one inch, or from that to
one and a half inch. The portion left forms the basis of one
or more fruit buds, bearing fruit in the following season, or a
spur on which blossom buds are formed for bearing in the
second season.

" The advantages consequent on properly managing fruit
trees, with regard to summer pinching, are so important that
attention to the subject cannot be too strongly urged. By
the operation, the shoots necessary to be retained, have the
great advantage of more light and air than would be the
case if crowded by a multiplicity of laterals, retained till the
time of winter pruning, when they must obviously be cut off,
either so close as to leave no bud to push, or shortened to
within a few eyes of their bases. In the former case, the
branch is left naked ; in the latter, when the tree is suffi-
ciently vigorous, the eyes left generally push other shoots, to
be again cut back in winter; and thus crops of shoots are
annually produced, instead of fruit, for many years, or until
the tree approaches the state of old age.

" The plan which M. Cappe pursues, succeeds admirably
in the climate of Paris. The fruit on the pyramid pear trees
under his management is stated, on competent authority, to
have been last year exceedingly abundant, large and fine.
This season the trees are healthy and vigorous, and well fur-
nished with blossom buds. It may be said that the generally
dry, clear air of Paris, is very different from the cloudy and
moist climate of many parts of Britain, — the one being
favorable for the formation of fruit buds, whilst the other
favors the growth of wood and leaves, and therefore, circum-
stances being different, the same practice may not be equally
proper for both. There are, moreover, instances of circum-
stances differing so widely as to require opposite methods of
culture. But this does not hold good as regards summer
pinching. In England, the drawback is a dull atmosphere ;
the shoots and foliage want more air and light. Summer
pinching affords this, inasmuch as it prevents the crowding
and shading of wood and leaves necessary to be retained,
by that which is superfluous ; and therefore it must be con-
sidered of still greater utility in dull climates than in bright,
more necessary in England than in France.

298 Summer Priming Dwarf Fruit Trees.

"Supposing the branches of a tree are properly thinned
and regulated at the winter pruning, and that, so far as they
extend, their number is quite sufficient for the space they
occupy, presuming, also, that the tree is in good health, a
number of laterals are sure to spring. They are, of course,
superfluous, and every one of them should be pinched as
already mentioned. If the last year's shoot has been short-
ened at the winter pruning, then, besides the terminal one on
the part left, one, two, or three, next to it, are almost sure to
push, and these M. Cappe commences to check by pinching
when about three inches in length ; but those nearer the base
of the shoot he allows to grow till they attain the length of
six or eight inches before he shortens them. The terminal
bud is of course allowed to go on for the prolongation of the
branch. It frequently happens in France, and the liability
will be still more in the climate of England, that, after a
shoot is pinched back, the newly formed buds on the part left
will push a secondary shoot in the same season. When this
is the case with those under the care of M. Cappe, he also
pinches these secondary shoots to an inch or an inch and a
half from where they originate. They rarely push again ;
but if they do, their growths are again reduced as before."

To this we may add the following, also from the pen of
Mr. Thompson, which we find in the last number of the
Gardener'' s Chronicle : —

"The operation of summer pruning is more especially-
necessary for trees that have undergone a process of pruning
and training than it is for those that have been left to nature.
Supposing two trees to be of equal vigor, both furnished with
an equal quantity of roots, and differing only in the one hav-
ing, in consequence of pruning, a much less extent of top;
the force of development being equal, it is evident that the
shoots will be much more crowded on the pruned than on the
unpruned tree. All other circumstances being the same, the
crowding will be proportionate to the disparity between the
expansion of the respective tops. Instances may be observed
of young shoots having only a scattered appearance over the
top of a tree formed of branches that have been allowed to
take their natural extension, whilst, on the other hand, a tree
that has been much cut in at the winter pruning will present

Slimmer Pruning Dwarf Fruit Trees. 299

a bush or thicket of yonug shoots. In the former case, the
leaves are in the free enjoyment of hght and air ; in the lat-
ter, they tend to shade and choke each other, unless pre-
vented by summer pruning. The instructions for this opera-
tion may be briefly expressed, but, in order that they may be
judiciously followed up, a few preliminary observations will
be necessary.

"Every leaf has a bud formed in the angle between its base,
or footstalk, and the shoot on which it is situated. Some of
these buds now forming will push into shoots in the following
season ; some may push even in the present, and form what
are termed laterals; and others will ever remain dormant, or
only progress annuallji^ as the successive layers of alburnum
'are deposited, but never appearing externally, unless artifi-
cially excited. This may be done to some extent by afford-
ing an extra supply of nourishment, but with more decided
effect by pruning. If a shoot or branch is shortened, the
consequence is, generally speaking, an increased development
of those buds that are left. The flow of sap that would
have been appropriated by the buds removed will be shared
by those that remain, and hence they will be stimulated to
greater activity,

" Supposing a shoot of last summer's growth, eighteen
inches in length, furnished with eighteen buds, if left un-
shortened at the winter pruning, it is very probable that only
three or four of the whole number would have pushed into
shoots, and these situated near the extremity, all the others
below remaining dormant. If this shoot had been cut back
to within six inches of its base in autumn several of the
buds that would otherwise remained dormant would have
certainly pushed. If every shoot had been cut back close to
its base, latent buds must have burst into shoots from the
older wood.

" From what has been stated, the general effects of short-
ening will be sufficiently understood. There are, however,
some circumstances connected with the shortening of summer
shoots which require to be pointed out. When the shoot of
last season was supposed to be shortened at the winter prun-
ing, its wood at the base was mature, and the buds on the
portion left were ready to push in spring, thus affording

300 Su7nmer Pnming Dwarf Frnit Trees.

ample channels for the sap ; but in the case of summer shoots
being similarly shortened it must be observed that the wood
is comparatively immature, and the buds imperfectly formed,
so that, in fact, these buds cannot readily push, and therefore
the flow of sap must, in the mean time, exert its force on
older buds, either latent or otherwise ; and hence the danger
of causing incipient flower buds to push into shoots, together
with a vast number of small shoots from buds which had
better remained for the present in a quiescent state. The
following mode of proceeding may be, however, relied on as
perfectly safe with regard to pear, apple, plum, and cherry
trees on walls.

"Commence forthwith to pinch off" a few inches from the
points of all shoots on the upper part of the wall, except, of
course, the leading shoots required to be preserved for the
extension of the branches. After a few days, let the points
of shoots on the lower portion of the tree be also pinched off";
and, at the same time, a considerable portion of those on the
upper part should be still further shortened to within three
inches of their bases. It is important to commence reducing
the shoots at the upper part of the tree before the lower ; for
the latter have always a tendency to become comparatively
weak, and this tendency is greatly coimteracted hj proceed-
ing as above." — {Gard. Chron., 1848, p. 363.)

In our warm and sunny climate, the trees make even a
more vigorous growth than in Paris, if we may judge from
the trees that came under observation ; and we have found,
after several years' practice, that summer pruning must be
kept up with us till the end of August, and, when the au-
tumn months are very warm, even to the end of September,
This especially is the case with trees on the pear stock, of such
kinds as cannot be grown freely upon the quince. Nearly
half of our trees are of this description, but we find no diffi-
culty in making them fruit, almost as early as if they were
upon the quince, by the method of summer pruning. In
connection with root pruning, the most free growing pears
may be brought into bearing in four or five years.

Summer pruning, though of the greatest advantage to
dwarf trees, may yet be practised with the best success on
standards, bringing them into bearing much earlier and giv-
ing them a better head.

The Camellia ; its History^ Introduction^ <S)'c. 301

Art. IV. The Camellia ; its History, Introduction^ Pro^m-
gation, Cultivation^ and Gejieral Treatment^ ivith a De-
scriptive List of the finest varieties. By the Editor,

It has been our purpose to present our readers with an
article upon the culture and management of the camellia for
a long period; but various engagements when our space
would permit, and a desire to accommodate our correspond-
ents at other times, have induced us to defer it from season
to season ; the period now having arrived when the plants
should be put in order for the coming winter, we have thought
it a favorable opportunity to detail the routine of treatment
of this most magnificent of plants, without which our green-
houses and conservatories would possess but little attraction
for a greater portion of the winter season.

The camellia, though very generally cultivated, is yet not
often seen in its greatest beauty. The plants are too often
crowded together, in order to make room for a great number
of varieties, and, consequently, their form is greatly in-
jured, the foliage less ample and rich, and the flowers smaller,
less perfect, and displayed in much less profusion than upon
well grown and properly managed specimens. A finely
formed plant, with its elegant glossy foliage, and exquisite
flowers — whether that universal favorite, the old double white,
or any of the beautiful colored varieties which now swell up'
the catalogues — is one of the most superb objects within the
whole range of cultivated plants.

So fully entitled to all the care which can be bestowed
upon it, the camellia should be found in every collection
making the least pretence to variety, brilliancy, or splen-
dor. The cultivation of the plants is perfectly simple, and,
though skill and experience are required to secure a full de-
velopment of their beauty, only ordinary judgment and atten-
tion are necessary to obtain a fine display of flowers.

The subject will be arranged under the following heads : —
History — Introduction — Propagation — Soil — Potting — Prun-
ing— Winter Treatment — Summer Treatment — Raising New
Varieties from Seed — Insects — Descriptive List of Fine Vari-
eties, &c.

VOL. XIV. — NO. VII. 26

302 TJte Camellia ; its Ii/troduclioti.

History.

The camellia is a native of China and Japan. In Japan,
it forms a lofty and splendid tree, greatly admired for the
beauty of its flowers, which are produced from October to
April. In all the Japanese gardens, camellias are planted,
embracing several varieties. Linneeus conferred upon it the
name of Camellia, in honor of George Joseiih Camelli, a Mo-
ravian Jesuit, and traveller in Asia.

Introduction.

According to Loudon, Lord Petre first introduced the ca-
mellia into England about or before the year 1739. The
Abbe Berbese states, however, that Father Camelli, after
whom the genus is named, first imported it into Europe in
1739. Lord Petre's plants were at first kept in a stove, and,
in consequence of this, they were all killed. It was after-
wards reimported and treated diflerently, but it was not until
about the beginning of the present century that the camellia
begun to be much esteemed in England. The old single red,
the type of the family; was the only kind known up to 1792,
a period of more than fifty years, at which time the old double
white and the double striped were imported : in 1794, the old
double red was received ; in 1S06, the Lady Hume; myrti-
folia in 1808 ; anemoneflora in 1809 ; Pomponia in 1810 ;
fimbriata in 181G, &c. &c. With the importation of these
elegant varieties, the taste for the camellia rapidly increased,
and few if any families of plants were more extensively prop-
agated than this. C. var. candidissima, tricolor, and some
other varieties, were not introduced until about 1830. The
first seedling raised in England was C. var. R6ss«, which
was first exhibited in 1824.

At what period the camellia was first received in this coun-
try is not known ; but, it is believed, about the commence-
ment of the present century. Mr. Floy, nurseryman of Har-
lem, N. Y., brought over with him, in 1800, a plant of the
double white, for John Stevens, Esq., of Hoboken, New Jer-
sey, who had previously received the single red. Subse-
quently, the other double varieties were introduced soon after
their importation to England.

The Camellia ; its Propagation. 303

Propagation.

The camellia is multiplied by several methods, viz., by
Seeds — Cuttings — Eyes — Inarching — Grafting — and Bud-
ding.

SEEDS.

The camellia is readily increased by seeds, which are ob-
tained in abundance, if the flowers are properly impregnated.
They must, however, be fully mature. The proper season
for sowing is as soon as they are taken from the seed pods,
which is generally about the month of September : they may,
however, be planted from that time to the end of February.
The best soil is composed of peat, loam, and sand, in equal
parts. Pans are preferable to pots, as they prevent the tap
roots from extending downwards. They should be planted
about an inch deep, finishing with a moderate watering, and
placing the pots in a warm shady situation in the green-
house.

The Abbe Berlese, in his Monography of the Camellia,
states, that the " seeds often remain two years before they
vegetate ;" and most English writers make the same remark;
but, so far as our experience goes, and we have raised thou-
sands of plants, we have never known a good seed which did
not vegetate in less than six months. Usually, the plants
appear above ground about two months after sowing ; but,
when the seeds are not planted till February or March, they
do not appear so soon, generally in three or four months.
We have had plants one foot high ten months after the seed
was sown.

The spring after planting, before the plants begin to grow,
they are potted off singly into three-inch pots, coiling the tap
root round the bottom if very long ; give a good watering,
and place in a warm shady situation for three or four weeks,
when they may have the same treatment as the old plants.
Sometimes they bloom the third year, but generally not till
the fifth, and frequently not until the tenth or twelfth year
after sowing. We have many plants raised from seeds in
1841, which do not show any signs of blooming.

304 The Camellia; its Propagation.

CUTTINGS.

The principal mode of propagating the camellia is by cut-
tings. This is done to obtain stocks upon which to inarch
or graft the fme varieties, the kind being the old single red,
or rapid and free growing seedlings. Probably seven eighths
of ah the camellias are so cultivated. It is frequently resort-
ed to to increase choice varieties ; but, unless such varieties
are of very free growth, the plants never make such fme
specimens as those inarched or grafted. Cuttings should be
treated as follows : —

At any time when the wood is fully ripe, cuttings va^j be
taken off. Generally, this is from July to January, unless
the plants make an autumn growth. Select young shoots
which are perfectly ripened, and cut them to the length of
three or four inches, always making a smooth cut immedi-
ately under an eye ; pinch off the two or three lower leaves,
and the cutting is ready for insertion, as in our engraving,
{Jig. 29.) The pots or pans, in which they are to be planted,

should be previously prepared, by fill-
ing them about one third with good
drainage, and the remainder with
clean sand : make the whole firm,
^^^1 and proceed to insert them about

an inch apart, and two inches deep.
Place the pots in a frame, with a
mild heat, or in a shady part of the
'^''- ""paS^jS'^:^ ^"- greenhouse ; keep them regularly wa-
tered, and, in two or three months, they will be sufficiently
rooted to pot off. If the cuttings are covered with a hand-
glass, they will root sooner and with more certainty. Their
after-treatment is the same as for old plants, and, if properly
treated, they will be sufficiently strong to graft or inarch
when two years old.

EYES.

The camellia may be multiplied by eyes or buds, just in
the same manner as the grape vine, but the process is more
uncertain than cuttings, and only practised by skilful garden-
ers. They are managed similarly to cuttings, only they re-

'V^

The Camellia ; its Propagation.

J05

quire to be covered with a bell glass, carefully watered, placed
in bottom heat, and potted off as soon as rooted. The cut-
tings should be about an inch long, with one eye and a sin-
gle leaf attached, and should be planted nearly horizontally,
with the leaf upwards, just covering the eye with sand. If
the leaf damps off, the eye rarely grows.

INARCHING.

Inarching, or, as it is often termed, grafting by approach,
is the most certain and speedy mode of obtaining good plants,
and, until within a few years, since the French gardeners
have apphed their skill to the increase of the camellia, nearly
or quite all the plants were propagated in this way. Sup-
posing the stocks to have been obtained, as we have already
directed under the head of cuttings^ inarching should be done
as follows : —

About the month of February or March, just before the
plants begin to grow, is the most favorable time to inarch.
It may be safely done in August, if more convenient; but the
plants are not so well able to bear rude winter treatment as
those inarched in March. To the amateur, March is deci-
dedly the best time. The operation is very simple. Select

a good healthy stock, and pare off
■ the bark and wood about two inch-
es in length, and about the twelfth
of an inch in thickness. Secure
the plant, so that it will not be
easily moved, within a suitable
distance of the branch intended
to be inarched, and then proceed
to cut away the bark and wood to
correspond with the incision made
in the stock ; fit the two parts
together, being careful that the
barks exactly join, and bind them
firmly with strong woollen yarn,
or bass matting, {Jig. 30.) At-
tend duly to the watering of the
plants, and, in two months, they will be united together. The
branch, however, should not be cut off at once. At the end
26*

Fig. 30 Camellia, showing the
mode of inarching.

306

The Camellia ; its Propagatio7i.

of this time, the shoot may be partially severed close to the
base of the inarching, and, in three or four weeks, it may be
separated from the parent plant. Their after-treatment is the
same as the old plants, unless they should show signs of not
having been well united, when they should be placed in a
close frame until the union is complete,

GRAFTING.

Grafting is the most rapid mode of increasing camellias,
and is generally practised when the object is to secure a stock
of some new and valuable variety, as every bud will make a
plant. In the hands of those who have not some skill, and
who are not willing to devote considerable care upon the plants,
grafting will be an uncertain method of propagation. The
operation may be performed at two seasons, viz. — ^just before
the plants begin to grow, in February — and after they have
ripened their wood, in August. The latter period is the most
favorable.

There are several modes of grafting the camellia, but that
most generally adopted is called the Belgic graft, {Jig. 31.)
The late M. Soulange Bodin, of Fro-
mont. a successful cultivator of the camel-
lia, practised c/e/"/?- grafting, but the incis-
ion caused by this mode does not heal over
readily.

The Belgic graft is performed in the fol-
lowing manner : — Select good healthy
stocks, and, if very large, take off some of
the top and side shoots, unless there is
plenty of frame room. Near the base of
the stem, cut away a small portion of the
wood and bark an inch in length, with a
notch at the base, as in our engraving,
{jig- 31, a.) Then prepare the scions,
which should have been previously select-
ed, by cutting them about two inches in
length, with a single bud and leaf attached,
and cut them on one side only, in the form of a wedge, (6,) ;
fit the barks exactly together, bind firmly with strong
woollen yarn, and the operation is finished.

Pig. 31. Belgic inode
of grafting the camellia.

The Camellia; Soil. 307

The success of this mode of grafting depends upon the
after-treatment of the plants ; as soon as the stocks are all
grafted, they should be placed in a frame without bottom
heat, but in a warm part of the greenhouse, where they can
be shaded in the middle of the day ; the pots should be
placed on their sides, with the graft upwards, and should
not be too crowded for fear of damp. 'J 'he sashes should be
put on and kept closed as much as possible; if any of the
plants appear dry they should be taken out and watered,
and returned again to the frame. If the operation is properly
done, the scions will be perfectly united in a fortnight or
three weeks, when the plants may be taken out. and the top
of the stock headed off to within an inch or two of the graft.
After this, they may receive the same treatment as established
plants.

Other modes of grafting are resorted to, but, having tried
them, we can only recommend them as novel, and more un-
certain than that which we have now detailed.

Soil.

A diversity of opinion exists among cultivators as to the
most suitable soil for the camellia. Formerly, peat (or heath
soil) and sand composed the compost in general use for the
plants ; and it was considered, by some cultivators, essential
to their health, that peat should form the principal component
of the soil. Even to the present day, many cultivators use
no other compost ; the French cultivators, in general, pot their
plants in peat and sand. For very young plants, it will
answer a good purpose ; but, as they get stronger, a soil of
more substance is required.

It is to be regretted that the camellia is not better cultivated
than we often see it in collections, even under the care of ex-
perienced gardeners ; but this arises, in a great degree, from
the want of a suitable soil. It is important to the health
and vigor of camellias, that they should not only be skilfully
potted and judiciously watered, but that the soil should be
good and properly prepared.

The compost now made use of by the best cultivators of
the camellia, is usually a rich yellow or hazel loam, taken
from the surface of an old pasture, and laid in a heap for Jdve

30S The Camellia; Repotting.

or six months, turning it over once or twice to hasten de-
composition. If put together early in the spring, it will be
ready for use in July or August. With a good stock of this
on hand, a small quantity of peat, old manure, or leaf-mould,
and sand, a compost may be made in which the camellia
may be grown to the greatest perfection. The proper propor-
tions are tti-o parts of loam, — one part peat and one part leaf
mould or old manure, adding sand sufficient to give freeness
to the soil, which is usually about one eighth of the whole.
These should be well mixed together, by turning them over
several times, merely throwing out any large stones, and
breaking up the large lumps, but, on no account, should it be
sifted, as is too often done. For seedlings and young plants,
little more sand and peat may be added.

Repotting.

Next to a suitable soil, the operation of repotting is one
of great importance as regards the future health of the
plant. It would seem to most persons to be a labor requiring
no great art, simply to shift a plant from one pot to another;
but it is only those who have had the experience, who
can appreciate the difference between a plant ordinarily
potted and one skilfully done. In the former case, in many
instances, the plant may be taken out of the pot, six months
afterwards, with the ball just as it was when shifted, with-
out having made a new root, and in the latter, the roots
would have again become so numerous as to form another
compact ball. The art of potting mainly consists in prop-
erly removing the roots from the old ball, and in making
the soil sufficiently firm, without being hard. For, if too
firm, the water will not penetrate the earth, and, if too loose, it
will be so constantly saturated with water as to often cause
the death of the plants.

The seasons of repotting are in the spring before the plants
begin to grow, and in summer, after they have ripened the
new wood, which is usually in July. The latter season we
greatly prefer, not only because there is more leisure to do
the work properly, but because the new soil does not get so
much exhausted before the time of flowering. The best
English cultivators repot in July and August.

FlorictiUural and Botanical Notices. 309

The size of the pots must be regulated somewhat by the
vigor of the plants ; as a general rule, the pot into which the
plants are to be shifted should be one inch deeper, and one
inch broader all round than the one in which it was growing ;
but often a strong growing specimen, which it may be an
object to encourage, may be safely shifted into a pot one half
larger than the one from which it was taken.

The first object is to prepare a good quantity of broken
pots for drainage, for no plant is more impatient of an excess
of moisture at the root than the camellia ; place over the
hole one or two large pieces, and, on these, smaller ones to the
depth of half an inch for small pots, and one inch for large
ones ; this done, fill in with the above compost an inch or
more, and it is then ready to receive the plant.

Now turn the plants out of their pots, first observing that
they are neither too dry nor too wet, the medium being so
that the earth will crumble off with the fingers ; carefully re-
move the soil and old roots to the depth of an inch, using a
sharp pointed stick to loosen it if the roots are much matted ;
and cut away all dead roots with the knife ; this done, place
the plant in the new pot sufficiently deep to allow half an
inch between the surface and the rim of the pot in small
plants, and an i7ich in large ones. Make the earth moder-
ately firm with the potting-stick, and finish with a good
watering from a fine rose, so as to settle the surface ; then
place the plants away where they are to stand, until the sea-
son for removing to the greenhouse or conservatory.

(To be continued.^

Art. V. FloricuUural and Botanical Notices of Neiv and
Beautiful Plants figured in Foreign Periodicals ; iviih
Descriptions of those recently introduced to, or originated in,
American Gardens.

Mr. Hartweg'^s return from California. — Mr. Hartweg has
returned from his expedition to California, where he was sent
by the London Horticultural Society. He has brought home

310 Floricultural and Botanical Notices.

with him four boxes, — two containing dried specimens, and
two, bulbs, pine cones, and other seeds ; and more packages,
which were despatched from Cahfornia before him, are ex-
pected every day. From seeds previously received from him,
the following are growing in the Society's garden : — Ceanothus
papillosus, dentatus, and rigidus ; Pinus Benthamia and
californica ; Zauschner/a californica ; the California horse-
chestnut, (Pa via californica,) said to be sweet; a Scarlet
Lily; a female Garrya eliptica ; Z/aurus regalis, a sweet
evergreen laurel ; a Prunus, with glaucous leaves, and said
to have pendulous flowers ; several evergreen oaks ; Abronia
umbellata, a pink flowered trailing plant, an inhabitant of
the sea-side, said to be finely scented in the evening ; a Me-
sembrydnthemum, and various others.

Mr. Fortune has resigned the curatorship of the Botanic
Garden, Chelsea, and has engaged with the East India Com-
pany to proceed to China, for the purpose of procuring tea
plants and seeds for their tea plantations, in the Himalayas.
Mr. Thomas Moore succeeds Mr. Fortune.

The neiD Tree Pceonies brought home by Mr. Fortune^ have
mostly flowered the past spring in the garden of the Horti-
cultural Society, and Dr. Lindley gives the following account
of them: — Of Mr. Fortune's Moutan pseonies, planted near
the Council Room, one flowered in 1847, and was named picta.
It is described in the Journal oi xYie Society, as "having
leaves of a dull bluish green," not veined or tinted with
purple, and as having flowers the size of P. Moutan rosea,
and with something of its appearance, but more semi-double.
The petals are stated to have a rose-ground color, streaked,
stained, and veined with rich deep rose towards the edges, es-
pecially on the inside; rather ragged at the points, something
in the manner of parrot tulips. It is perhaps as hardy as
P. Moutan rosea, and very handsome." This year, the fol-
lowing have flowered and have received names : — P. Moutan
globosa; this proves to be a fine large white sort, very dou-
ble, and having the base of the petals stained with large
blotches of deep purple ; it is stated to resemble P. Moutan
joapaveracea. P. M. violacea ; this is said to be a distinct
and fine variety, with deep lilac, nearly single flowers ; the
foliage deep green ; it is considered to be quite new. P. M.

Floricultural and Botanical Notices. 311

salmonea : this proves to be a good double kind, resembling
the flesh-colored variety of P. officinalis; the outer petals,
when fully expanded, are a pale salmon color; the inner
somewhat darker ; it is reported to be a good and distinct
variety. P. M. liiacina, the variety stated by Mr. Fortune
to be blue, has, unfortunately, turned out to be only a deeper
lilac than P. M. Banks/<E, which its flowers and foliage other-
wise resemble, except that the former are perhaps more dou-
ble ; it is, however, a desirable variety. The other plants
which have blossomed, have not proved distinct from the old
Pf M. Banksiffl.

Beautiful varieties of P/ilox DrninmoJidii. — Two new va-
rieties of this fine anrmal have been introduced this year,
named P. var. Lieopoldii and oculata ; the latter, one of the
most exquisite things we have recently seen : the flowers are
pure white, with a very distinct and brilliant violet eye;
grouped with the scarlet, maroon, purple, violet, lilac, rose,
pink, and other colored varieties, which this fine annual
sports into, it forms a most striking object. The other, P. var.
Leopoldii has rich rosy violet flowers, with a white eye •
and, though not so distinct as oculata, it is a showy variety.
By hybridization and judicious selection of seeds, no doubt
we shall soon have striped and mottled flowers as we already
have of the perennial sorts, now so generally cultivated and
every where admired.

Twenty-five kinds of achimenes have been sent to the Lon-
don Horticultural Society by Mr. Skinner, all of which are
reported to be new — one is said to have flowers as large as
A. longiflora, and of a fine rose color. They will prove great
acquisitions to this superb family of summer flowering plants,
so valuable for the decoration of the greenhouse at that
season.

Two new and splendid species of Fuchsia have been intro-
duced from South America. One is the F. spectabilis Hook
which is stated to be " upon the whole the handsomest species
yet known." The flowers are a deep crimson ; the petals j^a^
and bright rich red, the sHgma very large and pnre white,
the effect of which is to render its own fairness fairer, and
the richness of its rosy bed richer. The leaves are broad,
oblong, very firm, and a dark velvety green, although they

312 FloriciiUiiral and Botanical Notices.

have scarcely any hairs. It was found by Mr. Lobb on the
Andes of Cuena, in Peru, growing two to four feet high.

The other is F. loxensis, a shrubby species of the habit of
fulgens, serratifolia, &c. The leaves are large and in whorls.
The flowers proceed singly from the axils of the leaves,
and grow each on a separate stalk ; they are of a large, tubu-
lar form, and assume a slightly pendent position. The tube
of the corolla is slender, about three inches long, and of a
rich purplish crimson; the petals are, individually, of a
roundish ovate form, and expand widely, forming a nearly
circular face, nearly an inch in diameter ; the color of the
petals, a bright scarlet. The entire flower is very richly and
brilliantly colored.

hi our notices of new plants, we have, in the last and pres-
ent volume, only given a full account of the most showy
kinds for general cultivation ; but, as many of our readers are
desirous to see, at least, a notice of every new plant, Ave have
concluded to name all, adding only the character of the
plant, whether hardy or tender, its native country, &c., to
such as we do not deem entitled to introduction into all col-
lections.

71, Acm'MENEs GLoxiNiEFLo^RA i'V/^eZ Gloxinia-flowered Achi-
menes. ((resweriacese.) Mexico.

A stove plant ; growing one. foot hish -, with wliite and yellow flowers ; appearing all summer ;
Increased by the young tubeis ; cultivated in coarse peat and sand. Flore des Serres, 1848, pi. 318.

This is certainly one of the most beautiful and recherche
of all the fine species of achimenes which have yet been in-
troduced, and it will rank with the A. picta and longiflora
among the most elegant of summer flowering plants. It ap-
pears like an achimenes with the blossoms of a Gloxinia; the
flowers are very large, of a pure white, with an agreeable
odor, and the interior of the tube, which is an inch long, is of
a deep yellow, elegantly spotted with numerous small purple
specks. It appears to be a sort of natural hybrid. It was
introduced from Mexico in 1844, and flowered for the first
time last June, in the Garden of the Royal Chateau of
Lacken. It requires the same treatment as the other species.
{Flore des Serres, Feb.)

Reviews. 313

REVIEWS.

Art. I. A Manual, of the Botany of the Northern United
States, frojn Neiv Enffla7id to Wisconsin^ and south, to
Ohio and Pemisylvania, inclusive, ^'c. (^'c. By Asa Gray,
M. D., Fisher Professor of Natural History in Harvard
University. 1 vol. 12mo. pp. 710. Boston and Cam-
bridge, 1848.

We have examined this late work of Professor Gray with
much pleasure and interest. The reputation, which this gen-
tleman sustains as a botanist, entitles to great respect what-
ever emanates from his pen. Enthusiasticall)'' and ardently
devoted to this branch of natural science, his attainments, as
well as the results to which he arrives, are equally subjects
of praise. With means and facilities, not ordinarily at com-
mand of American botanists, and in communication with
men of like science throughout the country, he has it in his
power to render his labors as practically correct as could be
reasonably anticipated. Surrounded with the rich treasures
of various herbaria from all quarters, and at the head of an
establishment long known for its native botanical value at
Cambridge, we can scarcely conceive a more facile or delight-
ful opportunity to secure, amidst the amenities of science,
the production of works of value to the student or to the
inquirer in the several departments of botany.

It would, at the first glance, seem scarcely possible that a
new manual could have been needed among the profusion of
similar works and the abundance of local floras. Almost
every season has brought out some new hand-book of botany,
for these several years past. To judge from their almost
annual appearance, there must be a remarkable demand, or
else studies of this department of natural history are much
on the increase. We have looked into the greater proportion
of these, as we have had occasion to use them as authority,
or for the purpose of determining species coming under our
observation, from the earlier editions of the Florida Bosto-
niensis, of Dr. Bigelow, to the last appearance of the vener-
able Eaton's Manual, and the still latter volumes of Wood,

VOL, XIV. NO. VII. 27

314 Revieiv of Grai/s Botany.

6cc. (fcc, till, through the succession of about twenty yearS;
the list of such works has swelled to no small amount.
Many of these have been sectional in their character, and,
while doubtless representing the botany of their respective
regions, would serve little purpose beyond it. Some were of
the briefest description in delineating the species or in defin-
ing a genus; others, mere translations of original descriptions
from the scientific latinity of the discoverer; and others,
apparently, copied from larger works without so much as
the suspicion of ever having seen or known the plant intend-
ed to be specified. Nor did it require a very devoted searcher
after plants, to meet with species, in the range of a district
at no very great distance from the place of publication of the
manual itself, which could not be found in its pages ; so that
it became necessary to possess a library of every such trea-
tise, which appeared, from time to time, to satisfy the desire
for information, which was constantly arising.

The idea is by no means uncommon, and which has sug-
gested itself to every tyro, and to those unacquainted with
the subject, that there is small chance to find new species of
plants in regions so long known and herborized over, as are
most parts of this country. Yet one hardly knows what are
the treasures of a region, which has been long under his own
inspection ; and, while he is ordinarily diligent, some one
more fortunate or more persevering than himself, or his pre-
decessors, brings to light some rarity, or strange form, which
had previously escaped other eyes. The actual and precise
knowledge of older and familiar forms, and their identity
with, or difi"erence from, the types indicated by the names
they bear in common, can only be acquired by the compari-
son of original specimens, or with well authenticated ones.
These and similar facts point out the absolute necessity of
the appearance of such works as the one now before us.
And the increasing interest in botanical studies demands
books of unquestioned authority and the latest modes of
classification, nomenclature, description. We have been
pleased, therefore, to find the present work emanating from
such a source, and enlarged in its materials, matter, and sub-
jects ; and,

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